EGoM permits partial spectrum re-farming

02 Nov 2012 Evaluate

In an big respite to incumbent GSM operators, the empowered group of ministers (EGoM) led by finance minister P Chidambaram on November 1 decided to permit partial spectrum re-farming, wherein operators will be allowed to retain 2.5 mega hertz (MHz) through an administrative allotment by paying an auction-determined price. However, the companies after this move would have to pay a price either way, at a rate to be determined after the auctions, which will get over only mid-next year.

The decision, which is based on the recommendation of the Department of Telecommunications (DOT) and is yet to travel to the Cabinet for final clearance, has seen opposition from the association of operators representing Bharti Airtel, Vodafone and Idea Cellular.

Telecom minister Kapil Sibal on Oct 31 informed that decision on the issue will be taken before the auction for the spectrum gets operational by November 12. Meanwhile, the 1800 MHz spectrum auction commences on November 12, while the process for the 900 MHz auction starts in March and gets over in June next year. Further, clearing the air on partial spectrum re-farming, Sibal underscored that as per the decision taken, companies with 5 MHz spectrum will vacate the space. ‘Operators can keep 2.5 MHz spectrum.’ Sibal further added that market price applies for 2.5 MHz and spectrum acquisition will be via auction. ‘Auctions will be 18 months before expiry of licence.’

However, this decision is expected to benefit the companies operating with 900 Mhz band will, which is based on the recommendation of the Telecom Commission, which differed from an earlier plan by the government to ask for an altogether migration of the telecom operators to the new 1,800 MHz band. Now these companies can retain 2.5 MHz and will have to buy at least another 2.5 MHz from an auction, next year. The base price for that auction will be determined from the price arrived at in the upcoming auction for 1,800 Mhz band. Nevertheless, the GSM industry is opposed to refarming as an additional cost of at least Rs 100,000 crore for replacement airwaves and changing gear, would have to borne by them.

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