We will hold a spectrum auction within this year: Ravi Shankar Prasad

Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said that the government will hold a spectrum auction within this year, and also start 5G trials in the next 100 days.

Prasad — who took office as the Minister on Monday — said that he would also prioritise the revival of crisis-ridden Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd (MTNL).

However, the two companies will have to reciprocate and adopt a professional attitude, he said.

“I am of the belief that in the current calendar year, we will auction spectrum. We have adequate spectrum available. TRAI (The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) has given its recommendations,” Prasad said.