India is actively gearing up for the launch of 6G services by extending the validity of the 600 MHz band, a key component for high-speed Internet deployment, as stated by Anil Kumar Lahoti, Chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster spectrum availability and enhance network efficiency in response to the escalating data consumption nationwide.
Lahoti highlighted TRAI’s recommendations for inter-band spectrum sharing and leasing of surplus spectrum to optimize resource utilization in the telecommunications sector. Additionally, the regulator has proposed facilitating active infrastructure sharing among telecom operators, including the compulsory sharing of government-funded infrastructure and the voluntary sharing of privately-funded assets.
Furthermore, TRAI has introduced guidelines for captive non-public networks, enabling businesses to establish private 5G networks. Despite this, Lahoti acknowledged that this sector has not yet achieved significant success and emphasized the need for increased collaboration among stakeholders to unlock its full potential.
Addressing the growing data demand, especially with the proliferation of Artificial Intelligence applications, the TRAI Chairman emphasized that mobile networks alone may not suffice. He noted that India witnessed a substantial increase of 17 million fixed broadband users in 2025-26 and proposed a hybrid connectivity model combining fiber and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) to cater to future demands, underscoring the persistent challenge of indoor connectivity.
Lahoti stressed the importance of integrating indoor digital infrastructure during the building design phase, highlighting that the government has accepted TRAI’s recommendations in this area. Moreover, the TRAI Chairman outlined measures to enhance Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication to fortify the digital ecosystem.
