![5G spectrum auctions may take place around April-May 2022: Ashwini Vaishnaw 5G spectrum auctions may take place around April-May 2022: Ashwini Vaishnaw](https://varindia.com/storage/news/uploads/2018/02/618e477376476.jpg)
According to Communications Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, around April-May next year the auction for 5G spectrum may take place. He mentioned that at this stage it is difficult to provide a specific timeframe for the upcoming auction as a lot depends on the time the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) will take to finalise its views. "But, today, our estimate is by April-May. I was earlier estimating March. But, I think it will take...because consultations are complex, diverse opinions are coming," he said.
Earlier he had noted that in the first quarter of 2022 the spectrum auctions were likely to take place. He also said that the government will roll out reforms in addition to the reforms that were announced earlier in September. In the coming two to three years of time the telecom regulatory structure should change, he noted.
The government is keen to ensure that auctions are technology-neutral, and wants to give a spectrum that is consistent for many years to come. "So, 4G can be used in that, 5G can be used. So, that's the thinking based not just short term but more like thinking at least 5-10 years ahead," he said.
Telecom providers have sought additional time until May 2022 for the spectrum auctions from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), citing a lack of readiness. As per news source, telcos have found the current price for the average size of spectrum required to deploy 5G expensive. The deployment would require 100 Mhz of 5G spectrum in the 3.3-3.6 Ghz band. TRAI is reportedly consulting with stakeholders and will send them to the telecom department who will get them vetted by the Digital Communications Commission.
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