Telcos to Oppose DoT’s Move to Delicense Lower 6GHz Band, Citing 5G Expansion Concerns: Report

Telecom operators are preparing to oppose the Department of Telecommunications’ (DoT) draft proposal to delicence the lower 6GHz spectrum band, citing major concerns over 5G network expansion in India, Business Standard reported, quoting Industry sources. The DoT has proposed unlicensed use of the 5925–6425 MHz band — part of the coveted 6GHz mid-band spectrum — for low-power indoor and very low-power outdoor applications, such as Wi-Fi services. The proposal, currently open for public consultation, aims to enhance broadband access and promote next-generation Wi-Fi technologies without the need for spectrum assignment or prior authorisation.

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Also Read: Centre Notifies Draft Rules to Delicense Lower 6 GHz Band for Wi-Fi Use

Telcos Raise Concerns Over 5G Coverage Impact

However, telecom companies have raised strong objections, arguing that the lower 6GHz band is essential for delivering nationwide 5G coverage. They claim that delicensing the band will severely limit access to valuable mid-band spectrum, which offers the optimal balance of capacity and coverage required for dense urban environments.

“So far, limited spectrum has forced Bharti Airtel to re-farm its existing mid-band spectrum to support soaring 5G traffic, while Reliance Jio has pushed for more airwaves in the 3.5GHz band,” the report quoted sources as saying.

6GHz Spectrum

Part of the coveted mid-band spectrum — which offers a balance of coverage and capacity — the 6GHz band has long been contested between mobile operators and tech firms. A senior private-sector telecom executive was quoted in the report as saying that the 6GHz band is “critical for national-scale 5G coverage” and that telcos will soon raise the issue formally with the government. The DoT is accepting feedback on the draft for 30 days.