The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is reportedly examining methodologies to directly allocate spectrum to enterprises for private 5G networks. It has set up an internal study group to suggest possible allocation methods.
According to officials, direct allocation of spectrum to these enterprises would enhance the adoption of 5G private networks. Currently, enterprises are dependent on telecom operators for building their private networks.
In a recent white paper sent to the DoT, Voice of Indian Communication Technology Enterprises (VoICE), said that telecom service providers (TSPs) are known to add up to 40 per cent of the cost for providing spectrum. Since the same spectrum can be reused, direct allocation of spectrum to enterprises and/or captive non-public networks (CNPN) service providers will substantially reduce the cost burden.
According to VoICE, currently, 16 countries have set aside a dedicated spectrum for private networks. This includes the US, Canada, France, Sweden, Japan, Switzerland, Finland, Australia, Denmark and the Netherlands. The industry group stated that spectrum in suitable IMT bands such as mid-band 3.3 GHz may be assigned directly to enterprise and/or CNPN service providers administratively as per recommendations by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) and in the spirit of the new Indian Telecommunications Act. As per VoICE, the same will reduce the dependence on TSPs and the consequent influence on decisions by existing equipment players. This will help domestic product companies come out with innovative products and solutions.
