Adani Data Networks and Vodafone Idea have approached the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India, requesting an extension for meeting the minimum obligation to launch 5G services, said a Financial Express report. The initial deadline for this rollout was set for August 16. While the delay in Vodafone Idea's 5G launch is attributed to funding challenges, the Adani Group is still working on deploying a 5G network in the 26 GHz band for captive networks.
Telecom Secretary K Rajaraman confirmed the development to FE without revealing the names of the companies seeking the extension. He stated that the DoT is currently examining these requests. Adani Group, which acquired spectrum worth Rs 212 crore in six circles, could have potentially offered broadband services in a specific area or used data networks to connect its airports or ports.
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As per the government's guidelines, telecom operators are required to commercially launch 5G services in both metro and non-metro circles. Among major telecom operators in India, Vodafone Idea is the only one yet to launch 5G services. The company is presently conducting 5G trials in Delhi and Pune, with 36 tower sites deployed for testing. Commercial deployment will occur once orders are placed with equipment manufacturers.
Vodafone Idea's CEO, Akshaya Moondra, recently emphasised that while complying with the minimum rollout obligation is important, the company is focused on achieving broader coverage. Funding constraints have been the primary reason for the delay in launching 5G services. It is also worth noting that Airtel and Jio have not yet launched 5G using the 26 GHz band. This is because of the absence of a device ecosystem that requires that particular band of spectrum. It will be interesting to see what route the government takes from here. Whether the telcos will be penalised or will the government come up with a new plan, only time will tell!
