DoT to vacate broadcasting or satellite spectrum worth Rs 1 trillion for 5G and 6G 

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) reportedly plans to vacate more spectrum in the mid-band worth over Rs 1 trillion from incumbent broadcasting or satellite users in the next three years and auction it for 5G and 6G. According to sources, the department wants to shift the incumbent users, which are predominantly broadcasting firms, from 3670-4000 MHz band to the 4000-4200 MHz band. 

DoT believes that telcos will require more frequency in mid-band once 5G gains traction and later for 6G. Many countries including the US have already allocated spectrum till 4200 MHz for 5G. Also, the department recently rejected the recommendations of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to reserve 40 MHz in the 3700-3800 MHz for captive networks as the entire mid-band from 3300-4000 MHz is best suited for 5G services. 

Besides, the millimetre wave (mmWave) is also utilised for 5G and DoT wants these airwaves to be allocated through auction as well. The department has decided against reserving any spectrum in the mmWave band (28.5-29.5) for private networks or for satellite players.