Introduction
In continuation of the saga of the 2007/08 cellular licenses, this part explores the regulatory responses to the challenges surrounding spectrum availability and the consequences of a flawed licensing and spectrum assignment policy. With the entry of new players and the introduction of dual technology, the existing regulatory frameworks came under immense pressure, exposing weaknesses that led to significant industry disruptions. This part delves into the spectrum availability resolutions, the failure of the First Come First Serve (FCFS) policy, and the broader impacts on spectrum pricing and technology evolution.
Spectrum Availability Resolution
As mentioned in the previous part, two primary issues needed resolution to enable the entry of new operators: nullifying the claims of incumbent operators for additional spectrum and getting the defense forces to vacate spectrum in the 1800 MHz band. To address these issues, TRAI’s recommendation dated 28th August 2007 played a crucial role.
