Spectrum calls ringing in once again

They have argued that most countries where CDMA technology is used either allocate the 800 MHz band or the 1,900 MHz band, or both the frequency bands to operators.

They want the second situation in India, where there will be 8216;8216;allocation of spectrum to CDMA operators in 800 and 1,900 MHz bands.8217;8217; Auspi has told the Committee that handsets and infrastructure are readily available from multiple vendors for a quick roll-out in these bands.

But it is still early days. Next, the cellular operators will visit the Parliamentary Standing Committee, and they are expected to ask for more stringent capacity utilisation targets for the CDMA players.

Final decisions on allocating fresh spectrum in any band whatsoever depend on the Defence Ministry, which is yet to come up with a plan for replacing its equipment that uses these frequencies.

The Parliamentary Committee headed by M.M. Pallam Raju will also meet operators and technology providers. Although its report will not be binding on the Centre, it is relevant, as the government wants to finalise new telecom and spectrum allocation policies before the year ends.