Satcom spectrum: DoT backs Jio, Vodafone Idea, says it prefers auction for allotment

Amid the escalating fight over the mode of spectrum allocation for satellite communication services, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has backed auction as the preferred way, aligning with the stance of telcos Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea that are resisting satellite service providers’ demand that airwaves be allotted without bidding.

The DoT officials ET spoke with said satcom airwaves should be given to the highest bidder as there are many companies vying to enter the market, and that the bandwidth would be utilised for commercial purposes.