The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has today released a Consultation Paper on Assignment of the Microwave Spectrum in 6 GHz (lower), 7 GHz, 13 GHz, 15 GHz, 18 GHz, 21 GHz Bands, E-Band, and V-Band. TRAI has provided recommendations on the following aspects:
- Demand assessment and scope of service/ usage for (i) 57-64/ 66 GHz (V-band) and (ii) 71-76 GHz/ 81-86 GHz (E-band) and accordingly methodology of assignment of spectrum and associated terms & conditions, in line with the determination of scope of services/ usages by TRAI i.e. “Access” or “Backhaul” or “Integrated Access & Backhaul (lAB)”.
- Spectrum charges and related terms & conditions such as spectrum cap, carrier aggregation, etc. for assignment of spectrum in 6 (lower)/ 7/ 15/ 13/ 18/ 21 GHz bands for backhaul purposes of commercial telecom services.
- Any need for review in respect of use of 7/ 15 GHz bands in view of consideration of these bands for Access using IMT after WRC – 2027.
- Quantum/ band(s) of spectrum to be earmarked for last mile connectivity (Fixed Wireless Access) of commercial telecom services and methodology of assignment of spectrum and associated terms & conditions in non-IMT bands.
- Quantum/ band(s) of spectrum to be earmarked for Backhaul purposes for non-commercial/ captive use and associated terms & conditions including charges.
- Feasibility & technical parameters, for allowing low power, indoor, consumer device-to-consumer device usage on license-exempt basis in V-band.
In this regard, a consultation paper on Assignment of the Microwave Spectrum in 6 GHz (lower), 7 GHz, 13 GHz, 15 GHz, 18 GHz, 21 GHz Bands, E-Band, and V-Band has been placed on the TRAI’s website (www.trai.gov.in) for seeking comments and counter-comments from stakeholders. Written comments on the issues raised in the consultation paper are invited from stakeholders by 25th June 2025 and counter-comments by 9th July 2025.
