DoT considering BSNL request for re-assignment of spectrum in 900/1800 MHz band

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is currently considering the request from state-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) regarding the re-assignment of spectrum holdings in 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum bands.

BSNL-MTNL in the recent past has surrendered 58.8 MHz spectrum in 900 MHz and 1800 MHz band across the country in different circles. BSNL is looking to have the existing spectrum reassigned minus the spectrum surrendered to DoT.

BSNL’s license had expired last year in February post which it was operating on an ad-hoc basis. DoT had last year granted BSNL a fresh Unified License (UL) across all 22 circles including the MTNL network of Delhi and Mumbai with 20 years validity. BSNL since then holds a completely liberalised spectrum portfolio on a pan-India basis.

DoT meanwhile has also confirmed that certain quantum of spectrum has been reserved for BSNL/MTNL to provide 4G services. The spectrum will be assigned to BSNL/MTNL after completion of necessary formalities in accordance with Cabinet approval.

OnlyTech had earlier reported that the state-owned telco has been allotted an additional block of 5 MHz in the 2100 MHz band in 20 telecom circles (including Mumbai but excluding Delhi and Rajasthan) along with a 5 MHz block in the 850 MHz band in Rajasthan and a 10 MHz block in the 1800 MHz band in Delhi circle with a 20 years validity up to 2040.