DoT revises methodology for levying spectrum charges on captive users

To promote ease of doing business, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has revised the methodology to levy spectrum charges on captive users, rationalising fees paid by such players. As per officials, the DoT will now be charging for spectrum based on area as against the number of devices earlier.

“We have simplified the whole process and introduced the new concept of area-based pan-India captive category. The rates have also been rationalised for most captive users,” a DoT official told ET.

The move is likely to benefit captive users like Railways, ONGC, BHEL, mining industry etc. The DoT will also give three months grace time for setting up networks by such players and no spectrum charges will be levied for the period.