The companies were earlier considering seeking an extension from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT<\/a>) on the deadline to meet roll out obligations. But with the equipment makers assuring of supply of gear, the telcos have decided to set up the radios in all telecom circles to meet the basic roll out conditions.
A broader roll out will, however, not take place as currently there are no devices to support the band.
As per information available with ET, both the telcos have communicated to DoT that they would not need an extension and will set up the network as per the conditions in the notice inviting application (NIA).
The roll out obligations for the 26 GHz band are similar to the mid-band (3300-3600 MHz) for the first year. This means that by the end of first year, a company has to commercially launch service anywhere in each of the three metros and at least in one city in each of India's 22 telecom circles.
Any non-compliance on roll out obligations attracts a financial penalty. If the delay of service launch is more than 52 weeks, then the spectrum assigned can even be taken back.
“Meeting the roll out obligations is not a big issue for us. We were earlier thinking of seeking an extension as the equipment supply was not ensured but since the issue has been resolved now, we will comply with the conditions,” an executive with one of two operators said.
Another executive said companies must respect the sanctity of the NIA, which is a legal document. “While changes can be made in the NIA by the government after proper approvals depending on the requirements, it is advisable not to amend as it may have legal challenges later.”
Queries sent to Airtel<\/a>, Reliance<\/a> Jio, Vodafone Idea<\/a> and Adani Data Networks<\/a> regarding roll out obligations for 26 GHz elicited no response till press time.
The 26 GHz band was auctioned in last year's spectrum sale and all four bidders—Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea and Adani Data Networks—bought them for their 5G requirements<\/a>. The 26 GHz was the most sought-after spectrum after mid-band in the auctions of 2022, with 72% of the airwaves getting sold. But the absence of a device ecosystem has led to telcos not using the spectrum for their 5G needs, said industry<\/a> executives, asking not to be named.
Currently, Jio is rolling out 5G utilising mid-band (3300-3600 MHz) and 700 MHz band, while Airtel is using the 1800 MHz in combination with the mid-band as there are devices available which support the bands. Vodafone Idea, which bought 5G airwaves in both mid-band and 26 GHz band, is yet to announce its 5G roll out plans.
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