DoT asks TRAI to carry review on usage of spectrum

The review of the present usage of spectrum is being undertaken to identify the quantum of spectrum which is actually being put in use

The department of telecommunications (DoT) has asked the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) to review the usage of spectrum by private players and government institutions that are not related to defence and security.

“Trai may carry out review and make its recommendations on the present usage of spectrum... on the ‘efficient management’ of available spectrum,” the DoT said in a note.

An internal committee of DoT, formed to look into the pricing and utilisation of natural resources, has recommended that effective measures should be taken to ensure continued efficient usage of spectrum.

For this, appropriate incentives/disincentives for efficient/inefficient usage could be provided to telecom players, it said.

The review of spectrum usage is being undertaken to identify the quantum of spectrum available for use and to assess how efficiently it is being used.

Trai is expected to float a consultation paper for public comments before finalising its views on the matter.