TRAI rejects DoT demand to lower spectrum base prices

New Delhi: The telecom regulator rejected the Department of Telecommunication’s demand to lower reserve prices of spectrum to be auctioned this year, saying it had considered all developments while making its recommendations. The decision prompted telcos to call upon the government to reduce the prices.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India said there could be no guarantee that all spectrum on offer would be sold and placed the onus on DoT, saying the success of the auction would also depend on the government’s marketing efforts. “The authority reiterates the spectrum valuation and reserve prices as contained in its recommendations dated 1st August 2018,” the regulator said on Monday, responding to DoT’s reference to reconsider the reserve prices and make available all airwaves for sale to maximise government revenue.