DoT launches experiment licence module for 5G labs

17 April 2024

India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched an experimental licence module that will allow its established 5G labs across India to test 5G use cases.

The DoT has set up 5G use case labs within 100 institutes across the country with the objective to build competencies and engagement in 5G technologies for students and startup communities. The experimental licence from the DoT will enable those labs to use 5G spectrum bands to test whatever use cases they come up with without interfering with commercial 5G services.

The experimental license is available on a ‘self-declaration basis’ from the DoT’s Saral Sanchar portal. Applicants must provide details such as the use case to be tested, the technical details of the experiment and which frequency band they wish to use.

“This initiative aims to simplify the experimental licence requirements for these institutions, facilitating smoother operations and fostering innovation in the 5G domain,” said the DoT.

The DoT has granted 1,500 licenses so far for conducting trials and testing of 5G services and use cases.