DoT begins process to identify spectrum bands for private 5G network in India

DoT has started a procedure to identify the 5G spectrum bands, especially those with less commercial prospects for mobile operators for captive private networks. In its recommendations for the 5G auction, Trai suggested that at least 40 MHz blocks can be carved out in the 3700-3800 MHz and 4800-4990 MHz bands for captive private networks. It was also of the view that at least 400 MHz be earmarked in the 28.5-29.5 GHz band for private networks as well as satellite earth stations.
DoT begins process of identifying spectrum for private 5G networks - TeckNexus

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has started a procedure to identify the 5G spectrum bands, especially those with less commercial prospects for mobile operators that can be distributed through administrative means to businesses to establish and operate captive private networks.


After the department identifies the spectrum for private networks, it will urge the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) to determine pricing through administrative allocation. A senior official indicated that Trai had already selected some airwaves suitable for such networks; however, DoT wants further to identify additional frequencies with a lessened financial potential.

According to a government official, the plan is not to reserve spectrum for captive networks that have high demand and require an auction. Trai has proposed that at least 40 MHz slices be allocated within the 3700-3800 Mhz and 4800-4990 Mhz bands to put aside for exclusive private networks. Furthermore, Trai encouraged that a minimum of 400MHz in the 28.5-29.5GHz band should be set apart from both satellite earth stations and private networks alike.

The majority of businesses that are in the process of obtaining dedicated spectrum access for individual networks have requested airwaves through the bands officially identified by Trai. Recently, the immensely sought-after 3700-3800 MHz or mid-band spectrum was auctioned off for 5G services. Moreover, 3300-3670 MHz spectrum also went on sale in this particular auction. According to industry sources, companies such as Infosys, Capgemini, GMR, L&T, Tata Communications, Tata Power, and Tejas Networks have all applied to the DoT for spectrum allocation in select regions within that band.

In addition to the mid-band, companies have looked for spectrum in the 28.5-29.5 GHz and 4800-4990 MHz (or millimeter wave) bands as well.

DoT has received a total of 18 applications in response to its exercise that gauged the demand for spectrum from private corporations. Interestingly, there were multiple requests originating from the same group’s companies.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) believes that if private networks are to be granted access to spectrum in the mid-band, they should pay a market-determined price due to recent auctions. However, no final decision has been made on this issue, and DoT is awaiting recommendations from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai).

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has released initial guidelines for private networks that will enable businesses to lease spectrum from telecom operators or acquire it directly from DoT. Additionally, enterprises can even ask telecom providers to install their own individualized networks — which is the case with Airtel’s recent agreement with Tech Mahindra to deploy a captive network at Mahindra’s Chakan facility.

The Department of Telecommunications has yet to provide a timeline for the direct allocation of spectrum, leaving many industry professionals wondering how long it may take for the government to publish relevant regulations. Estimates range from one to two years before any definitive rules are released.

Private networks are quickly becoming a game-changer for corporate organizations, who now have the option to set up their own Wi-Fi and data network instead of relying on telecom service providers. Enterprises all over the world recognize that private 5G networks offer enormous potential in terms of capabilities, security, and cost savings – making them an attractive alternative to traditional public network offerings.

Contention has arisen between technology firms and telecom operators over the allocation of spectrum for enterprises to establish their own dedicated 5G networks.

Since the cabinet’s June agreement to offer direct spectrum allocation to businesses, telcos have been in dissent, claiming it would create unfair competition and provide technology companies with a backdoor entry into providing 5G services for enterprises.

Technology firms have asked the government for a direct allotment of 5G spectrum for their private networks, sidestepping telecoms entirely.


Recent Content

Web3 is redefining the telecom industry by introducing decentralized infrastructure, blockchain-based billing, smart contracts, NFTs, and digital identity. This article explores how telcos can evolve from connectivity providers to key players in Web3 ecosystemsโ€”offering programmable services, token economies, and secure, user-centric digital experiences.
As the telecom industry celebrates World Telecom Day 2025, the theme is clear: connectivity is not just infrastructureโ€”it is empowerment. It is what enables a student in a rural village to access world-class education, a farmer to monitor crops via smart sensors, or a doctor to conduct remote surgery with millisecond precision.
AT&T will acquire Lumenโ€™s consumer fiber business in a $5.75B deal to expand its broadband coverage to 60 million U.S. locations by 2030. The transaction gives AT&T access to 4M enabled locations, 1M subscribers, and new metro markets like Seattle and Phoenix. Meanwhile, Lumen refocuses on enterprise innovation and AI-first networking.
As 5G expands, reduced-capability (RedCap) and enhanced RedCap (eRedCap) IoT devices face pressure to transition from 4G. But adoption has lagged due to price and value challenges. This article explores why OEMs are holding back, the role of low-power DSP modem platforms like Cevaโ€™s, and how software-defined radio and flexibility are key to unlocking 5Gโ€™s potential in high-volume, low-bandwidth IoT applications.
Verizon joins the Buffalo Bills as a Founding Partner of Highmark Stadium, bringing 5G connectivity, sustainability-focused services, and smart venue technology to the teamโ€™s new home in Orchard Park. The partnership includes ownership of the DAS system, advanced operational tools, AR fan features, and exclusive Verizon customer activationsโ€”setting a new benchmark for connected sports venues by 2026.
Singtel launches 5G+, introducing nationwide network slicing for both consumers and enterprises, a global first. This upgrade brings faster speeds, lower latency, stronger indoor coverage, and real-time cyber protection to over 1.5 million users. Singtel 5G+ enhances mobile connectivity with the 700MHz spectrum, priority plans, and app-based slicing for business-critical apps, aligning with Singaporeโ€™s Smart Nation goals.
Whitepaper
Telecom networks are facing unprecedented complexity with 5G, IoT, and cloud services. Traditional service assurance methods are becoming obsolete, making AI-driven, real-time analytics essential for competitive advantage. This independent industry whitepaper explores how DPUs, GPUs, and Generative AI (GenAI) are enabling predictive automation, reducing operational costs, and improving service quality....
Whitepaper
Explore the collaboration between Purdue Research Foundation, Purdue University, Ericsson, and Saab at the Aviation Innovation Hub. Discover how private 5G networks, real-time analytics, and sustainable innovations are shaping the "Airport of the Future" for a smarter, safer, and greener aviation industry....
Article & Insights
This article explores the deployment of 5G NR Transparent Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), detailing the architecture's advantages and challenges. It highlights how this "bent-pipe" NTN approach integrates ground-based gNodeB components with NGSO satellite constellations to expand global connectivity. Key challenges like moving beam management, interference mitigation, and latency are discussed, underscoring...

Download Magazine

With Subscription

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Scroll to Top