Telecom Commission has sent back several recommendations of TRAI on next spectrum auction stating that more clarification is needed. TRAI and mobile operators requested to postpone the auction till more spectrum is available for sale. But Telecom Commission and DOT rejected this on the grounds that there is no merits for this demand.
Commission has agreed to TRAI's view on freeing up spectrum in 2100 MHz band, which is used for 3G service from defense. But the telecom department has expressed its inability to get the defense department to vacate the airwaves in time for next auction. TRAI was of the view of conducting simultaneous sale of 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz (3G) bands.
TRAI had suggested taking a part of 900 MHz and 800 MHz from state-run BSNL and MTNL to add to auction pool. It also warned about price of these spectrum hitting roof top due to artificial scarcity if enough spectrum is not available for sale.
Also Read: DOT panel to follow Febuary 2014 model for upcoming auction
Commission has also asked TRAI to review its recommendations of 10% higher base price for 900 MHz and 1800 MHz than previous auction. Commission also sent back TRAI's recommendation on 800 MHz CDMA which was around 50% higher than the previous auction.
As per reports, government is planing to conduct next spectrum auction within this fiscal with whatever amount of spectrum is available for sale.
