Liberalise E and V spectrum, replace telco levies

There is a fresh controversy around spectrum in India’s telecom sector. The sector’s key players are divided on access to unused spectrum in E and V bands—we offer more details later—that can expand broadband capacity. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has recommended to the government that this spectrum be regulated lightly or “liberalised” to promote wider use. Major technology companies and standalone internet service providers (ISPs) support Trai’s proposal. However, telecom operators (telcos), the main users of spectrum in India, vehemently oppose this idea. Cellular Operators’ Association of India (COAI), in a letter to the government, claimed that the proposal is “technically not feasible, legally untenable, causes huge revenue loss to the government and disturbs level playing field”. It advocates auction of the spectrum for the exclusive use of its members. A final decision is pending.