On a Wednesday conference, Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that Indian 5G auctioning would “most likely” be conducted in February 2022. There is even a January timetable from the state.
By the end of 2021, Jio has announced a 5G launch back in December 2020. However, postponements in the Indian 5G auction and many other reasons have now delayed the timeframe to 2022.
In addressing PTI, the minister also stated that the cabinet-cleared Indian Telecoms Reform Package is adequate for the survival of industry participants. It would guarantee healthy competition. He also said that there might be more participants due to further reforms and structural improvements.
Ongoing Monopoly Game:
This briefing was conducted as part of a major rescue package for the strained telecommunications industry in India. The package consists of a four-year respite from statutory dues for businesses. A modification of the definition of income on which taxes are paid, and 100% foreign investment on an automatic route.
The date scheduled for changes, including the moratorium, was October 1. It was also mentioned that if a business cannot pay the interest amount via stock.
Vaishnav further said that following Wednesday’s briefing he talked to all major stakeholders and that businesses were pleased with the steps outlined. “All three great players believe this was absolutely necessary,” he added.
Concerns about high spectrum costs. The Minister stated that TRAI is presently discussing and that waiting for the final report is preferable.
Finally, he stated that the government would shortly publish comprehensive circulars on every decision made as part of the telecom package. The AGR redefinition, which aims to eliminate non-telecom products, is anticipated to be finely printed within 2-3 weeks.
“The process underlying this reform package looks over next 25 years…what corrections need to be made, what reforms need to be made, structural adjustments need to be made. All of this should assist the poorest parts of society and provide better facilities for disadvantaged and far-reaching individuals,” stated the Minister.
