DoT may not offer 600 MHz band in its next spectrum auction

The Indian government didn't hold any spectrum auctions in the calendar year 2023. However, there is likely to be one in early 2024. The Department of Telecommunications plans to conduct the next spectrum sale as permits of Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea (Vi) expire in 2024 in some circles like West Bengal, Assam, Bihar and Odisha.  

However, all unsold spectrum from the last sale, except for the 600 MHz, is going to be put on table.  

The next spectrum auction is going to take place soon and is expected to conclude within FY24. The decision to not offer the 600 MHz band could only be for the next auction.  

The price of the 600 MHz was the same as the 700 MHz spectrum band in the previous auctions that took place in mid-2022. At Rs 3,927 crore per unit, the 600 MHz spectrum band was the costliest on the lot and it found no takers among the participants. Even the 700 MHz band was only taken by Reliance Jio. 

The government wants to take its time and understand the best use of the 600 MHz spectrum to ensure that it doesn't interfere with satellite services. In the next auctions, telcos may get all the unsold spectrum from the previous auctions leaving the 600 MHz band. The 700 MHz band will likely not see any suitors again this time.