TRAI to start consultation on 4G spectrum allocation to BSNL, MTNL soon

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has sought the views of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) on allocation of fourth generation (4G) airwaves to state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. and Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd.

“We have received a reference couple of days back on 4G spectrum allocation to BSNL and MTNL. We will issue a consultation paper and hold open house discussion on it soon,” TRAI Chairman Ram Sewak Sharma said on Tuesday.

The allotment of 4G airwaves to BSNL and MTNL will support their revival strategy and help them compete with private operators Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea.


The DoT said in February that it had sought suggestions from TRAI on allotting frequencies to BSNL and MTNL so that they could start 4G services. ET Telecom reported last week that the telecom watchdog was yet to receive a formal communication from DoT on the allocation of 4G airwaves to BSNL and MTNL.

The government has asked the regulator for its views on the allocation of 4G spectrum as well as the quantum, price and appropriate frequency range for the two telcos. “We expect Trai to soon come out with its recommendations based on its well-established extensive consultation process,” BSNL chairman Anupam Shrivastava told ET.