The DoT is being overhauled so that after the passage of the Telecom Bill, ‘spectrum allocation procedures will become simplified and standardized in order to reduce administrative delays. With this important step toward realization, a wide variety of government agencies will be able to apply for spectrum allocation on behalf of specific sectoral uses.
According to the First Schedule of the Telecom Bill, there are 18 sectors (such as satellite communications) which must be handled through administrative allocation. Previously, many areas had no clear process for allocating spectrum, resulting in long waits to apply and even conflicts.
In addition, the Bill gives the government authority to change listings in the First schedule based on considerations of “ state function ” or national interest. This improves flexibility when auctioning spectrum might not be appropriate due to technical or economic factors.
More crucial, the Telecom Bill sets clear legal principles governing spectrum allocation in place of the prior ad-hoc approach based on interpretations of various laws and judgements. Besides those specified in the First Schedule, the spectrum will be put up for auction.
Government officials are brimming with optimism pointing out that the process of receiving requests from a wide variety of users and especially government ministries and agencies can be completed more quickly. At present, spectrum has been assigned on an ad-hoc basis in 4,700 cases by the government.
In terms of streamlining operations, a new National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP) is also about to be introduced. The NFAP is a systematic policy reference for national authorities, such as the telecom and space ministries along with information and broadcasting issues as well defense matters. The telecom law, meanwhile, points out the importance of a NFAP in providing rational spectrum management.
The DoT had set up the standing committee on spectrum management in June 2023, and will be reviewing the NFAP as recommended by CAG. The CAG recommended for setting up permanent mechanisms to review spectrum pricing, planning and availability.
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This radical change promises a spectrum allocation system that is more efficient, smoother than ever before and transparent thus making an important stride towards optimum use of airwaves by all interested parties.
