Trai has given its recommendations on spectrum. We have a system of standing committee, finance committee, they are examining it, says Ravi Shankar Prasad
The government plans to conduct a spectrum auction, including for 5G in this calendar year, while trials for 5G will start in next 100 days, the new communications minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said on Monday.
Incumbents including Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea, though, have raised concerns on the high reserve price of the 5G spectrum and given the financial stress, they want the auction to happen next year.
"Trai (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) has given its recommendations on spectrum. We have a system of standing committee, finance committee, they are examining it. Once they come with a solution...whether there is a need for more consultation with Trai, we will have to look into it. Then, we have to go to the Cabinet and appoint auctioneer," the minister said.
"The 5G trials will start trials in 100 days. We propose to earmark a portion of spectrum also for 5G purposes. We would like to use 5G technology for deprived sections, social causes, education and health, and for bringing technology to rural people," he said.
When asked about financial stress in the industry, Prasad said he will examine all the issues in the industry and then take the next steps.
"We will hold consultations with the telecom industry to understand their issues and challenges, and we will work towards addressing those issues," he said.
Also, a final decision on the participation of Chinese player Huawei in the 5G trials is yet to happen. “It (Huawei) is a complex issue and will be looked at seriously including security aspects,” the minister said.
"We will take a firm view on it. There are also security issues...it is not only a matter of technology... Also, participation in 5G is not conditional upon the trial being started. Whether a particular company is allowed to participate or not, is a complex question including security issues."
In his first media briefing after assuming charge, he also said the revival of ailing telecom PSUs – BSNL and MTNL – will be a priority area. However, he added that both the PSUs need to reciprocate and adopt a professional attitude. A PSU is required to maintain a healthy balance in the sector.
The other agenda on his table include creating a Broadband Readiness Index, which will reflect the realities of the Indian market, besides setting up five lakh WiFi hotspots and promoting telecom manufacturing in India. The index will be based on parameters like infrastructure, approval processes and utilisation of the high-speed Internet.
"While we all respect freedom of speech and expression that is sacrosanct for us and part of the constitutional guarantee, but that is also subject to reasonable restriction,” he said after taking charge of the IT ministry. The data protection Bill will also be on top of the agenda, but he did not specify whether the Bill will come for approval in the upcoming Budget session.
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 "Ravi Shankar Prasad")
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