The Government of India has proposed new guidelines under the Telecommunication Act, 2023, which specifically addressing wireless systems operating in the 5925-6425 MHz band. The draft rules, titled the Use of Low Power and Very Low Power Wireless Access System Including Radio Local Area Network in Lower 6 GHz Band (Exemption from Licensing Requirement) Rules, 2025, are a step toward modernizing India’s wireless infrastructure.

These rules specify the circumstances under which low-power indoor and high low power outdoor wireless devices may operate without the requirement for a traditional license. This is a bold step that aimed at boosting innovation, especially in smart homes, IoT devices, high-speed data transmission and wireless communication technologies areas.

Objective of the Draft Rules

The main objective of the draft rules is to allow the use of wireless equipment in the 5925-6425 MHz band without a license or frequency assignment. The initiative supports the placement of technologies like Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 JD, which provide higher data output, lower latency and more efficient spectrum utilization. This demonstrates India's commitment to growing broadband access, boosting innovation and conforming to international wireless communication standards.

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Why This Matters: Unlocking the 6 GHz Band in India

The 6 GHz spectrum has attracted global attention for enabling Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 technologies, which provide higher speed, lower latency, and enhanced capacity important for smart homes, enterprise environments and Industry 4.0 applications. By opening this spectrum without licensing needs, India is:

• Aligning with global trends in spectrum liberalization
• Supporting IoT innovations
• Improving broadband penetration
• Streamlining regulatory compliance with fewer barriers like spectrum auctions

What the Draft Rules Propose: Key Highlights

The draft rules wisely outline operational limits to ensure interference free co-existence with other spectrum users.

• Exemption from Licensing Requirement: The most significant change is that no authorization or frequency assignment is required to establish, maintain, or operate low power indoor and very low power outdoor wireless access systems in the listed frequency band (5925-6425 MHz). This exemption is issued on the condition that these devices adhere with the technical parameters established by the government.
• Device Categories and Power Limits:

Operational Restrictions:

1. All kinds of use are prohibited on Oil platforms
2. Indoor use is prohibited on Land vehicles (e.g., cars, trains) and boats, aircrafts except when flying above 10,000 feet.
3. Communication with and control of Drones and Unmanned Aerial Systems is prohibited.

• Out of Band Emission Limits: Devices operating in the 5925-6425 MHz band should meet stringent out-of-band emission limits to avoid interference with other wireless systems. The emission must be suppressed to 20 dB above 1 MHz outside of the channel edge, and by up to 40 dB at higher frequencies, confirming that the equipment does not cause any harmful interference.
• Interference Handling Mechanism: The usage is unlicensed, it is not without responsibility. If any licensed operator under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 or Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 is notified of harmful interference, the following actions may be taken:

1. The authority may instruct the unlicensed user to minimize power, relocate equipment or use particular antenna designs.
2. If unsolved, the Authority may recommend suspension of such usage
3. All users are guaranteed a reasonable opportunity to respond to the implementation

• Equipment Requirements under the New Rules: The new draft rules for Low Power and Very Low Power Wireless Access Systems (WAS), including Radio Local Area Networks (RLANs), in the lower 6 GHz band, established specific requirements for wireless devices to confirm compliance.

1. Integrated Antenna: Equipment should consist an in-built and joined antenna for efficient operation.
2. Type Approval: Devices should be type approved to match technical specifications, including emission limits and power density.
3. Design and Compliance: Equipment should be designed to follow to the required emission bandwidth and technical parameters.
4. Approval Process: Manufacturers should apply for type approval to the Central Government in the set format.
5. Safety Standards: Devices must fulfill international or national safety standards such as ITU, ETSI, BIS, and ICNIRP.

Also Read: Telecommunications (Framework to Notify Standards, Conformity Assessment, and Certification) Rules, 2025: A Comprehensive Overview

Impact on Industry and Manufacturers

These draft rules will have a crucial impact on India's wireless communication industry. Manufacturers of wireless devices operating in the 5925-6425 MHz band will require to guarantee that their devices adhere with these new standards in order to be lawfully operated in India. Companies wishing to import or sell wireless devices from India must obtain WPC approval and WPC ETA certification. The process confirms that all equipment meets the necessary technical standards including emission, safety and interference control. Non-compliance with regulations could lead to the being banded from the market, posing a challenge to businesses that function in the wireless technology sector. 

Conclusion

The rules proposed under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 are a bold step towards democratizing wireless access in India. By permitting the use of the 6GHz band without license, the government is setting the foundation for high-speed wireless communication across sectors from smart homes to industrial automation.

Although, even with this progressive move, compliance remains essential. All manufacturers and importers must obtain the WPC ETA certificate to assure that their devices meet Indian regulatory and safety standards. This ensures smooth incorporation into the Indian telecom environment while maintaining spectrum integrity.