According to LatestLY, Adani Data Networks Limited (ADNL) has signed agreements with Bharti Airtel to transfer 400 MHz spectrum rights in the 26 GHz band. This deal, announced on Tuesday, covers six major telecom circles in India: Gujarat, Mumbai, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The transfer aims to reshape telecom ambitions and support Airtel’s 5G network expansion. The transaction remains subject to statutory approvals.
What is the 26 GHz Band?
The 26 GHz band is part of what experts call millimeter wave spectrum, which works like super-fast lanes on a digital highway. This high-frequency band allows extremely quick data transfer but covers shorter distances. It’s perfect for crowded city areas and businesses that need lightning-fast internet.
Spectrum Distribution Across Circles
| Telecom Circle | Spectrum Amount (MHz) |
|---|---|
| Gujarat | 100 |
| Mumbai | 100 |
| Andhra Pradesh | 50 |
| Rajasthan | 50 |
| Karnataka | 50 |
| Tamil Nadu | 50 |
ADNL had originally purchased these airwaves during the 2022 5G spectrum auctions for ₹212 crore. This deal is part of Adani Group’s strategic realignment of its digital connectivity assets, allowing the company to focus on other priorities.
Benefits for Airtel
For Bharti Airtel, which already has 120 million 5G users, this acquisition will strengthen its network capacity in major markets. The additional spectrum will help Airtel deliver faster speeds and better service to customers in these six important regions.
Adani’s Financial Performance
- Q1 FY25 Net Profit: ₹1,454 crore (116% increase)
- Q1 FY25 Revenue: ₹25,472 crore (12% year-on-year growth)
- FY24 Net Profit: ₹3,240.78 crore (31% increase from FY23)
The spectrum transfer demonstrates how telecom resources are being redistributed to companies that can best use them. For Airtel, it means better 5G service in key markets. For Adani Group, it represents a strategic shift in its digital approach.
This deal highlights the ongoing evolution of India’s telecom landscape as companies position themselves for the future of digital connectivity. The transfer of these valuable airwaves will likely accelerate 5G deployment in major Indian cities, benefiting millions of users with faster internet speeds.
