Terrestrial spectrum issue lying with IT Ministry

NEW DELHI, INDIA: The long-pending issue of the opening of terrestrial spectrum for private players is lying with the Ministry of IT as per Ambika Soni, the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting.

“The terrestrial spectrum issue is lying with IT Ministry. There were some issues that were identified at the Empowered Group of Ministers and they have to work on it,” said the I&B Minister.

Ambika Soni did not, however, elaborate on the issues. On the other hand, sources at the Department of IT said they are not aware of any matter related to opening of terrestrial spectrum for private players that has come to them for consultation.

TRAI, in 2005, had made a recommendation for the entry of private players in terrestrial spectrum but there had been no significant move from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Formulation of policy on terrestrial spectrum has been delayed despite the Supreme Court verdict on airwaves in 1995. Public broadcaster Doordarshan has the monopoly over the use of terrestrial spectrum. Industry sources say that the government is not opening terrestrial spectrum as it wants to save the existence of Doordarshan.

Opening of terrestrial spectrum for private players will help operators reach viewers without the need to invest much in infrastructure.

Terrestrial spectrum is seen as a technology that can help telecom players in starting mobile TV as it will give seamless viewing experience throughout out the country, without using telecom spectrum.