The GSM Association (GSMA) has requested the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to refer the inclusion of the 6 GHz band and other International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) spectrum bands to TRAI for India’s upcoming spectrum auctions. The move, GSMA says, is essential to ensuring a balanced and future-ready telecom infrastructure.

Mid-Band Spectrum Key to 5G Expansion

While welcoming the focus on high-band mmWave frequencies, GSMA’s Jeanette Whyte, Head of Public Policy for APAC, emphasized the equally critical need for mid-band spectrum in India. She noted that bands like 6 GHz will play a pivotal role in the rollout of 5G and future 6G technologies.

Global Alignment and Future Readiness

GSMA pointed to global trends, noting that countries have already identified the 6.425–7.125 GHz range for IMT use at the WRC-23 summit. The association urged India to begin planning its inclusion to remain globally competitive and ensure timely access to critical spectrum resources.

Strategic Benefits of 6 GHz Inclusion

Enables city-wide 5G deployment in urban and suburban areas

Enhances network performance and user experience

Supports sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, and smart cities

Positions India as a leader in 6G innovation

GSMA believes that 2 GHz of mid-band spectrum will be required per country by 2030 to maintain high-quality 5G services.

Economic Potential of 5G and 6G in India

According to GSMA Intelligence, 5G could contribute INR 36.4 trillion ($455 billion) to the Indian economy between 2023 and 2040. This growth is expected to stem from digital transformation across major economic sectors.

Support for DoT’s Forward-Thinking Spectrum Policy

GSMA commended the Union Cabinet’s recent move to reframe additional spectrum, including in the 6 GHz range, for IMT use. However, TRAI’s latest recommendations—focused only on high-frequency bands—did not address mid-band needs due to the limited scope of the DoT’s reference.

India’s Path to Global Telecom Leadership

Whyte urged the DoT to ensure mid-band spectrum availability at reasonable prices and under fair conditions, which will bolster foreign investment, accelerate digital infrastructure, and reinforce India’s position as a hub for advanced telecom technology.

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