Ministry plans to study 4G technology

KATHMANDU, DEC 23: 

The Ministry of Information and Communications is planning to start a study on the possibility of allocating frequency for fourth generation (4G) mobile phone and communication standards.

Government has decided to carry out a detailed study for providing 4G spectrum to telecom service providers in the recently endorsed Telecom Sector’s Radio Frequency (Distribution and Pricing) Policy-2012, said joint secretary at the ministry Surya Bahadur Raut. 

Ministry will study utilisation of 4G standards in the South Asian region before preparing the report, said Raut, adding that it will study the spectrum allocation and distribution system of India and other relevant countries in the region. 

The 4G — successor to third generation (3G) standards — provides mobile ultra-broadband internet access and conceivable applications including amended mobile web access and IP telephony. 

The country has to embrace new technology to tap its features in a competitive manner, said Raut, adding Nepal should grant permission to telcos to operate 4G standard to make the telecom sector more competitive and to provide more facilities to consumers. 

Telecom Sector’s Radio Frequency (Distribution and Pricing) Policy-2012 has stated that the government will complete all necessary preparation within six months and provide frequency to service providers.

Ministry will also study appropriate band to provide frequency, he said. “It is planning to utilise 700 MHz, 2200 MHz and 3300 MHz band to launch 4G standards.” Ncell and Nepal Telecom have shown interest to bring 4G technology.

Source: THT