Published by Vashishth Academy – Ludhiana’s Leading Institute for UPSC, PCS & SSC Preparation
🚀 Context: Spectrum Revolution in Indian Connectivity
In a big push for next-gen internet access, the Indian government has proposed licence-free use of part of the 6GHz spectrum (5925–6425 MHz).
This is set to dramatically improve WiFi speed, reduce congestion, and support tech innovation — especially for WiFi 6E and WiFi 7 devices.
📶 Understanding WiFi Bands: A Quick Primer
| Band | Speed | Range | Interference | Devices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz | Moderate | Long | High | Legacy devices |
| 5 GHz | High | Medium | Moderate | Modern WiFi devices |
| 6 GHz | Very High | Short | Low | WiFi 6E/7 only |
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6GHz band offers 1200 MHz bandwidth, supporting up to 7 non-overlapping 160 MHz channels — ideal for gaming, 4K/8K streaming, AR/VR, and video conferencing.
🇮🇳 India’s Policy: Partial Delicensing for Innovation
India has chosen a middle path — delicensing only the lower 500 MHz (5925–6425 MHz) for WiFi.
| Stakeholders | Position |
|---|---|
| Telecom Giants (Jio, Airtel, VI) | Wanted entire band for 5G/6G |
| Tech Companies (Sony, Apple, Meta) | Wanted full unlicensed access |
🔍 India’s approach follows ITU’s 2023 guidelines, reserving the upper 6425–7125 MHz for licensed mobile services.
🧪 Key Features of Draft Policy
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No licence needed for low-power indoor and outdoor WiFi systems
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Enables launch of WiFi 6E/7 devices in India
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Encourages faster Internet of Things (IoT) adoption
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Helps in smart homes, offices, and high-density digital environments
🌍 International Comparison: India vs World
| Country | 6GHz Spectrum Status |
|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | Full 1200 MHz delicensed (since 2020) |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | Full delicensing |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | Partial (like India) |
| 🇸🇬 Singapore | Partial |
| 🇨🇱 Chile | Reversed full access |
| 🇲🇽 Mexico | Under review |
📌 India’s decision is progressive, though experts argue for full access to boost the Digital India initiative.
🎮 Industry Impact: Tech Firms Applaud the Move
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Sony may launch PlayStation 5 Pro in India due to improved wireless infrastructure
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Boosts potential for Meta’s VR devices, Apple’s WiFi 6E gadgets, and smart home systems
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WiFi-intensive industries such as gaming, healthcare, remote education, and startups will benefit
📚 Relevance for UPSC / PCS / SSC Exams
| Topic | Exam Link |
|---|---|
| Science & Tech | UPSC GS-3 |
| Digital Infrastructure | Government Schemes |
| Spectrum Management | Indian Economy, Governance |
| IT & Telecom Policies | State PCS Current Affairs |
📝 Terms to Remember:
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WiFi 6E, WiFi 7
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6GHz spectrum band
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Unlicensed spectrum
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ITU (International Telecommunication Union)
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Licence-free wireless policy
💡 Vashishth Academy Insights
At Vashishth Academy, we keep you updated on current developments shaping India’s future.
Our GS Modules, Tech & Innovation Notes, and Mock Test Series ensure you’re ready for the dynamic questions that UPSC and PCS now ask.