Trai refuses to budge on 5G spectrum pricing in upcoming auctions

The regulator has, however, yielded ground on the issue of lock-in period it had previously recommended for spectrum in the 3,300-3,600 megahertz (MHz) band (for eligibility on spectrum trading)

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) on Monday reiterated its recommendation on spectrum pricing in the upcoming auctions. In response to the Digital Communications Commission (DCC), the regulator said it had considered all the relevant factors, including methodology, assumptions, and developments in the telecom sector before giving its views.

Last month, the DCC had asked Trai to reconsider its spectrum recommendations amid financial stress in the sector and to also ensure competition and greater participation of a larger set of players in the upcoming auctions.

It had said that the demand for spectrum is likely to be subdued due