The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has drawn up a draft strategic plan that includes spectrum sharing by operators, introduction of mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), setting up a committee to review the use of spectrum and a uniform licence fee across services, according to news reports. Many of these initiatives are expected to be a part of the New Telecom Policy, 2011.
In the draft note, DoT has also identified deadlines to achieve various targets. For instance, it wants to achieve vacation of spectrum and introduction of MVNOs by December 2011. Spectrum sharing and a uniform license fee is to be introduced by June, 2011.
On better utilisation of scarce spectrum, DoT believes that spectrum management review should take into account the global trend of licence-exempt allocations. The review should also examine the terms and conditions of the government?s use of spectrum, development of a framework for using white spaces and a spectrum audit process.
A spectrum committee, comprising officials from the wireless planning and coordination wing and other stakeholders should be formed and should be reviewed at least once every three years, according to the DoT.
DoT also emphasised the need for transparency in licensing norms and procedures to help promote investment, consolidation and increased efficiency. A uniform licence fee regime across telecom circles is also a long overdue reform, which will address issues related to creating a level playing field.
