Telecom Commission agrees to spectrum allocation for cordless telephony

Inter-ministerial panel Telecom Commission has approved free allocation of 20 megahertz (MHz) of spectrum for cordless telephone system that can be used for communication within a premise or a similar small area for non-commercial purpose.

Telecom regulator Trai in 2012 had recommended that a 20MHz of spectrum in a band should be de-licensed for low power operations of cordless telecommunications system (CTS) for private and indoor use but not for commercial use.

The implementation of the move will reduce telecom bills of business houses within their premises and provide more flexibility at work with cordless phones as well as boost development of cordless telephone systems in the country.

“The Commission has said that implementation of the Trai recommendations would advance the objectives behind Digital India. Therefore, the commission decided to accept recommendation of Trai and it should be placed before competent authority for final decision,” an official source said.

The Defence Ministry had objected to the recommendation as the 20MHz frequency spot lies in the band which it uses for its communication services. The Ministry has raised security concern on freeing up spectrum for general public.

The Telecom Commission suggested that DoT and Defence can continue their discussion for an amicable solution but did not favour sending the recommendation back to Trai because of objection from Defence.