Government Confirms Auction Process for Mobile Spectrum Allocation in India

The Indian government has confirmed that it will continue to follow the auction process for the allocation of mobile spectrum, in accordance with the Telecommunications Act 2023. In response to an inquiry from Ashmit Tej Kumar, government sources stated that the new telecom law allows for administrative allocation of spectrum only in very limited and narrowly defined cases.

These cases include walkie-talkies for police organizations, radar for weather forecasting, communication for ships, space and satellite applications, and for the military. "The government will follow the auction process for the allocation of mobile spectrum in all other cases," the sources said.

The Telecommunications Act 2023 does permit administrative (non-auction) allocation of spectrum in certain situations where it is determined to be in the public interest or necessary for the government to perform its functions. This includes cases related to national security, disaster management, and public broadcasting.

Previously, the government had filed a miscellaneous application in the 2G spectrum case, seeking clarification from the Supreme Court on its ability to consider administrative allocation of spectrum in suitable cases. However, the communications minister has clarified that the government is not seeking to modify the 2G judgment and will adhere to the auction process for spectrum allocation.

Why this matters: The confirmation of the auction process for mobile spectrum allocation in India provides clarity on the government's approach and adherence to the Telecommunications Act 2023. It highlights the limited scope for administrative allocation and the government's commitment to transparency and fair competition in the telecom sector.

As of April 24, 2024, the government's stance remains firm on following the auction process for mobile spectrum allocation, with administrative allocation being restricted to specific and narrowly defined cases outlined in the Telecommunications Act 2023. The communications minister's clarification underscores the government's intent to uphold the Supreme Court's 2G judgment and maintain the integrity of the spectrum allocation process in India.

Key Takeaways

• India to continue auctioning mobile spectrum as per Telecom Act 2023.
• Administrative allocation limited to specific cases like police, weather, military.
• Telecom Act 2023 permits admin allocation for national security, disaster, public broadcasting.
• Govt not seeking to modify 2G judgment, will adhere to auction process.
• Govt reaffirms commitment to transparency and fair competition in telecom sector.