COAI Alleges Deviation from Agreed Stance on 6 GHz Spectrum at Global Meet

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), representing major telecom operators like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea, has expressed concerns over the Indian delegation's stance at the ongoing global spectrum conference in Dubai. The conference, known as the ITU World Radiocommunication Conference 2023 (WRC-2023), is discussing the allocation of the 6 GHz band spectrum, which is crucial for the development of 5G and 6G services.

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COAI's Allegations and Recommendations

In a letter to Union Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, COAI has alleged that the Indian delegation is deviating from the agreed-upon position on the 6 GHz band spectrum without consulting the industry. The association emphasizes the importance of designating this spectrum for mobile services, as it offers lower network rollout costs compared to higher frequency bands. COAI recommends strict adherence to India's original position during the WRC-2023 and urges the minister to ensure that any deviations are made only after consultation with all stakeholders.

Importance of 6 GHz Spectrum for 5G and 6G

The 6 GHz band spectrum is considered a "mid-band" spectrum, which offers a balance between coverage and capacity. It is seen as essential for the development of affordable 5G services and the future evolution of 6G technology. Global telecom industry body GSMA has also emphasized the significance of this spectrum, stating that it is the only large contiguous block of mid-band spectrum that can deliver affordable 5G services.

Concerns Over Delicensed WiFi Usage

COAI has raised concerns that discussions at the WRC-2023 are shifting towards designating the 6 GHz band for delicensed WiFi/NRU (new radio unlicensed) usage. This goes against the originally agreed-upon position and national objectives. The association argues that the impractical power limits suggested by the Indian delegation for IMT (International Mobile Telecommunications) in this band would hinder the development of 5G and 6G.

Impact on India's Digital Infrastructure

COAI stresses the importance of allocating the 6 GHz band for IMT 5G to bolster India's digital infrastructure and ensure that the benefits of next-generation connectivity reach every corner of the nation. Failure to do so would not only harm India's IMT interests but also impact the progress of a worldwide ecosystem for IMT in this band.

Seeking Ministerial Intervention

COAI has sought the immediate intervention of Telecom Minister Vaishnaw to ensure that the allocation of the 6 GHz band prioritizes national interests and connectivity goals. The association believes that India would greatly benefit from this additional capacity, given the country's accelerated digital adoption and leadership in the digital space, including 5G. GSMA has also urged Vaishnaw to support the Indian delegation in finding a consensus approach for the band, as several countries worldwide recognize the need for this mid-band spectrum.

The allocation of the 6 GHz band spectrum at the WRC-2023 has become a contentious issue, with the telecom industry expressing concerns over the Indian delegation's stance. COAI emphasizes the significance of this spectrum for 5G and 6G development and urges the government to prioritize national interests and connectivity goals in its decision-making process.