DoT may ask Trai to take a call on backhaul spectrum based on usage

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is urging the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) to adopt a comprehensive approach to backhaul spectrum allocation, given advancements in 5G and 6G technologies. Reliance Jio advocates for auctioning backhaul spectrum for access services, while rivals Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea oppose this. Satcom players like Starlink and Project Kuiper prefer non-exclusive administrative allocation for their needs. The DoT is preparing to respond to Trai’s consultation on spectrum assignment, emphasizing the need for clarity on spectrum usage for backhaul versus mobility.