The controversy surrounding the possible cancellation of broadband wireless access (BWA) licences of US-based telecom chip-maker Qualcomm is set to end as the government has finally decided to grant it licences.
A department of telecom official told HT: "We have decided to issue ISP licences to Qualcomm so that it can launch BWA services."
DoT had earlier sent a notice to the company threatening cancellation of licences on technical grounds, despite Qualcomm having paid about $1 billion for wireless spectrum in four circles for which auction was held last year.
The company needs Internet Service Provider (ISP) licences to launch services.
Last year, it sold 26% equity stake in its India broadband venture to Global Holdings and Tulip Telecom to comply with foreign direct investment (FDI) ceiling rules. Amaximum 74% foreign holding is permitted in local telecom service providers.