The GSM Association (GSMA) on Monday said that the Government should release spectrum in the 700 Mhz bands to enable faster growth of broadband services in the country.

GSMA is the global industry body representing the interest of GSM operators, equipment vendors and handset makers.

Mr Rob Conway, CEO, GSMA, said, “Through sufficient spectrum allocation, India can become a leader in the provision of mobile broadband and take advantage of the huge economic benefits. We fully support the Indian government in its efforts to connect all its citizens to the Internet and look forward to the early release of spectrum in both the 700MHz and 2.6GHz bands in line with international efforts.”

Though the 700 Mhz band is earmarked for telecom services, the Information & Broadcasting Ministry is planning to offer airwaves in this band for Mobile TV. Mr Conway was speaking at a seminar organised by the GSMA.

Mr Kapil Sibal, Minister for Communications and IT, said, “The Indian government understands the need for wireless broadband connectivity and is working towards making adequate spectrum available to support these services.”

Dr J.S. Sarma, Chairman, TRAI, said, “TRAI is committed to developing an ecosystem to meet the need to connect our citizens in line with the National Broadband Plan. Mobile broadband will play a significant role in meeting our target of 160 million broadband connections by 2014.”

Related Topics