TRAI gives more time for written submissions on spectrum auction discussion paper

"Keeping in view the requests of stakeholders for extension of time for submission of comments, it has been decided to extend the last date for submission of written comments and counter comments up to 10 January 2022, and 24 January 2022, respectively,” TRAI said.

No further requests for extension will be considered, it asserted. No further requests for extension will be considered, it asserted.

Last month, TRAI had released a detailed consultation paper to discuss threadbare the modalities for auction of spectrum across multiple bands, including pricing, and other conditions — preparing the groundwork for 5G auctions slated for next year.

TRAI’s comprehensive consultation paper touches upon crucial aspects like valuation and reserve price of spectrum, including 5G, quantum of the spectrum, block size, eligibility conditions for participation in the auction, roll-out obligations, and surrender of the spectrum.

Norms will also be worked out for new frequencies such as 526-698 MHz and millimetre band, that is 24.25 – 28.5, in addition to bands such as 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz, 2500 MHz, 3300-3670 MHz.

The telecom industry has repeatedly expressed concerns over high spectrum pricing and is hopeful of a rehaul in valuation methodologies.