DoT considering spectrum re-allocation to Jio to prevent interference with Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope: Report

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is considering allocating a higher frequency to Reliance Jio after it was found that the telco’s operations in the 850-950MHz spectrum range in the Junnar taluka of Pune was creating interference with the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT), the world’s largest radio telescope in the low-radio frequency range, Indian Express reported.

The DoT had erroneously awarded airwaves in the 850-950MHz range to Jio in 2016 for operations in Maharashtra.

However, this coincided with the GMRT’s frequency operation range (100MHz to 1500MHz) after which scientists from the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA) raised the issue with the Ministry of Communications in early 2018.

To recall, the radio telescope enjoys special protection around a 900MHz spectrum for carrying out astronomy-related activities.

The constant interference has led to a significant volume of data getting corrupted, rendering them unusable for scientific research.

AK Tiwari, Member (Technology), Digital Communications Commission (DCC) at DoT, confirmed with the publication that his office has received detailed information regarding the harmful effects of Jio’s transmissions on the operations of GMRT. He added that scientists have sought the ministry’s urgent intervention.

“Previously, there were rounds of discussions with the authorities of GMRT and telecom operators in this regard. The case, which is already in process, has been referred to higher authorities for review. Technically, the DoT feels that the frequency allotted to RJIL should be shifted. Probably, we will shift the telecom operator to some higher frequency so that the cause of interference is removed,” Tiwari was quoted as saying.

But the telecom department cannot make available frequency matching with that of the GMRT’s operations for auction.

And, in case, the ministry decides to allocate higher frequency to the telecom operator, spectrum and other payments as well as the re-allocation itself could take some time.

“Every frequency auctioned comes at a certain cost. The price difference, if any, from the time of auction/allocation to the present re-allocation will have to be borne by the telecom operator,” another DoT official informed the publication.

Jio, on its part, had taken up the issue of payments with the telecom department in 2018.

Telecom department officials said to settle spectrum pricing difference, the matter will be first taken up with the Member Finance, DoT. And once Jio pays the required amount, the DoT will begin spectrum re-allocation.

Currently, the case is being considered by the office of Anshu Prakash, Chairman DCC and Secretary, (Technology).

Tiwari added that he expects the matter to be resolved “within two months”.