Telecom secretary Neeraj Mittal launches experimental module for 100 5G labs, ET Telecom

NEW DELHI: Telecom secretary Neeraj Mittal has virtually launched an experimental license module for the 100 5G labs across India during a workshop at IIT Madras, the Ministry of Communications said in an official statement Friday.

These labs will be using 5G frequency bands for carrying out various experiments and testing use cases which is why they need to obtain an experimental (non-radiating) category of license from the DoT to ensure interference-free operations to licensed telecom operators.

“This initiative aims to simplify the experimental licence requirements for these institutions, facilitating smoother operations and fostering innovation in the 5G domain,” the ministry said.

As per the statement, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has granted about 1,500 licenses to date for conducting trials and testing of fifth-generation or 5G services and use cases.

The license is currently being issued on a self-declaration basis from the telecom department’s Saral Sanchar portal through the National Single Window System, the statement added.

“As per the current process, applicant has to fill necessary details regarding the experiment to be carried out, schematic of the setup, details of the equipment, frequency band of operation etc. to obtain the experimental license,” the ministry said.

The ministry said the simplified mechanism for the issuance of licenses will bring about efficiency in filing applications, make the licensing process instantaneous, simplify the process, and support innovation.

“With only basic information required such as institute address, authorized personnel, and a nominal fee of Rs. 5000, the application process is streamlined, making it more accessible to a wider range of institutions,” said the ministry.