Analysing spectrum administration for 5G in India using a policy Delphi

Abstract

5G technologies are introducing new capabilities and services in the telecommunications (telecom)industry, changing business models and market structures, and compelling alterations in regulatory frameworks. Telecom administrations across the world are making choices for regulation of key resources such as spectrum to meet 5G requirements. 5G is taking root in the Indian telecom market. This paper analyses expert stakeholder and practitioner opinion through a policy Delphi to examine what kind of regulatory and policy changes need to be made in India’s spectrum management policies in a 5G market and how these could be best adapted to the unique public policy and political economy environment of this country. It arrives at practical recommendations for planning, assigning, and pricing spectrum which could be of value to policy makers and regulators.