Sibal asks telcos to sink differences on spectrum

Sibal, during his meeting with various telecom operators, discussed in detail issues ranging from spectrum sharing, merger and acquisition, annual spectrum usage charge and rising disputes among the telecom firms.

“Range of issues were on the table basically as you know that Telecom Regulatory Authority of India had given its recommendations way back in May last year and then its latest recommendations on spectrum management in February 2011.

“I have urged the stakeholders that the captains of the industry must get together and iron out the differences among themselves because no industry can be robust if it is fractious,” Sibal told reporters here.

The minister held consultations with stakeholders to evolve a clear and transparent regime covering licensing, spectrum allocation and other issues in the telecom sector.

“By the end of this month Minister has asked to give our recommendations to sort out differences existing in the industry,” Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) Director Rajan S Mathew said.