DoT Launches Spectrum Demand Survey for Private 5G Networks

02 Jul 2025 CW Team

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has initiated a fresh demand survey for spectrum allocation to Captive Non-Public Networks (CNPNs), inviting eligible enterprises and system integrators to participate through the Saral Sanchar portal. The move aims to identify viable frequency bands for the direct assignment of spectrum and promote the deployment of secure, high-reliability private 4G/5G networks across various industries.

Earlier guidelines permitted enterprises to establish their own CNPNs by accessing spectrum either through Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) or via direct allocation from the DoT. However, limitations in the device ecosystem for the initially proposed bands hindered adoption.

Recent analysis by the DoT shows that most CNPN-compatible devices are now available in IMT bands, and 5G technology has matured with new industrial use cases. Additionally, system integrators have shown strong interest in building CNPN infrastructure, prompting the department to reassess spectrum demand.

The new survey module, launched via the Saral Sanchar portal, is intended to evaluate industry demand across different frequency bands. An official memorandum regarding this initiative was issued on 30 June 2025, and the exercise is open for submissions from 1 July to 31 July 2025.

Eligibility for direct spectrum allocation will follow the CNPN guidelines issued on 27 June 2022. Enterprises with a net worth exceeding Rs 1 billion and system integrators working with such firms are encouraged to register their interest.

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