Preface
E
fficient
utilisation, spectrum pricing and allocation procedure has its
genesis in the Unified License policy wherein the TRAI envisages the
spectrum allocation policy to be separate from licensing of services. Also, the
scarcity of this resource requires initiatives that encourage its most efficient
usage. The Government has sought the TRAI's recommendations on the
following
a) Efficient utilisation of spectrum
b) Spectrum allocation procedure
c) Spectrum pricing
The TRAI has undertaken a study of the best international practices in this
regard and has prepared this consultation paper raising key issues for
comments of the stakeholders. Data was called on from cellular mobile
service providers to gauge the level of efficiency achieved by the existing
operators. A comprehensive framework balancing the technical and economic
aspects is the objective that the consultation process seeks to achieve and
this paper provides a basis to hold discussions in this regard.
The paper first discusses the current status of spectrum award, spectrum
pricing, likely demand and spectrum allocations. Thereafter the technical and
pricing options that encourage efficient usage of spectrum has been detailed.
Using the technical and economic aspects, there arises issues and options
pertaining to spectrum allocations. Further, key issues such as spectrum Re
farming, Trading, Mergers & Acquisition and Spectrum surrender have also
been brought out.
We are hopeful that this paper would succeed in meeting the objectives that it
seeks to achieve towards formulation of a policy on important issues relating
to spectrum. The paper has already been placed on TRAI's website
(
www.trai.gov.in
)
Written comments on this paper may be furnished to Secretary, TRAI by 30
th
June, 2004. For any further clarification on the matter, Secretary TRAI or
Advisor (MN), may be contacted at trai07@bol.net.in (Ph.No.26167448) and
jsengg@trai.gov.in
(Ph.No.26106118) respectively
.
(Pradip Baijal)
Chairman, TRAI
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