Bangalore: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has started consultation for the next level of telecom services or the fourth generation or 4G technology, which offers download at faster speed known as ultra-broadband and high definition video on demand among other such services.

4G or LTE is a successor to 3G and 2G standards, with the aim to provide a wide range of data rates up to ultra- broadband (gigabit-speed) Internet access to mobile as well as stationary users. "Yes. We are starting the process and would come out with a consultation paper to look into various issues relating to 4G telecom services," TRAI Chairman J S Sarma said. "3G has been delayed badly. I don't want 4G or LTE (Long Term Evolution) to meet the same fate. Other countries are catching up with the 4G and that is why we are taking advance action," he said.

He, however, said categorically that this is not suggested that skip 3G process, as the government has taken definitive steps and may auction the spectrum soon. Trai would look into the various aspects, including spectrum band to be alotted for 4G service and quantum and modes of allotment to the operators.

Sarma said that the consultation paper will be issued "very shortly." The paper would throw various questions for the industry and other stake holders to deliberate culminating into recommendations by the Trai.

Trai's move to leapfrog to 4G or LTE technology comes in the wake of the government dithering over 3G policy that has been delayed by more than three years. In fact a number of foreign players like the US-based Motorola and Ercisson have already started testing 4G or LTE technology in various parts of the world.

Commenting on whether the government has sought recommendations from TRAI for 4G telephony, Sarma said, "Trai required examining various issues concerning 4G and we do not want it to be delayed like 3G and that is why we have started the process."