According to the union minister of communications and development of northeastern region, the government has maintained its position on SIM binding rules, placing national security above revenue considerations. He stated that security concerns take precedence in the national interest when compared with possible revenue impacts.
On the timeline for the next spectrum auction, the minister confirmed that the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has submitted its recommendations. He said the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) will examine these recommendations. The department is expected to issue views on various spectrum bands and reserve prices. He added that the recommendations will be reviewed and a specific timeline will be announced later.
The minister also spoke about the progress of satellite spectrum allocation, stating that he is keen to begin satellite services in India. He explained that the launch of these services depends on finalising the spectrum assignment price and ensuring that all security requirements are met.
He said that once these conditions are fulfilled, the spectrum can be allocated. The government is working to finalise the spectrum assignment pricing, and the process is currently underway.
On the issue of adjusted gross revenue relief sought by other telecom operators, the minister said that the DoT is acting in accordance with the Supreme Court verdict in relation to Vodafone Idea Limited.
