According to industry sources, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has initiated a process to identify 5G spectrum bands that can be administratively allocated to companies for rolling out captive private networks. The exercise mainly includes identifying particularly those with a lower potential to be used for commercial purposes by mobile operators that can be administratively allocated to companies for rolling out captive private networks.
Post this, DoT will ask Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to give pricing for administrative allocation. Although TRAI has identified some airwaves that can be reserved for such networks, DoT wants to explore more bands that would have a lower commercial potential.
In its recommendations for the 5G auction, TRAI had suggested that at least 40 MHz blocks can be carved out in the 3700-3800 MHz and 4800-4990 MHz bands for captive private networks. It was also of the view that at least 400 MHz be earmarked in the 28.5-29.5 GHz band for private networks as well as satellite earth stations.
Meanwhile, most companies that are seeking direct spectrum allocation for private networks have sought airwaves in the TRAI-identified bands. The most sought spectrum band is the 3700-3800 MHz or mid-band, airwaves for which was recently auctioned for 5G services.
DoT has received around 18 applications for direct spectrum allocation. These applications were filled in response to an exercise launched by DoT to test the demand for spectrum to set up private networks. According to the initial guidelines on private networks released by DoT, enterprises that want to set up their own captive networks can lease spectrum from telecom operators or get it directly from DoT. Meanwhile, the enterprises can also ask telecom operators to roll out their private networks.
However, as of now, DoT has not decided on any deadline for direct spectrum allocation.
