EGoM to discuss spectrum auction details on January 3

03 Jan 2013 Evaluate

To discuss modalities about the spectrum sale due this fiscal, the Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) on spectrum, headed by Finance Minister P Chidambaram, is scheduled to meet on January 3. The EGoM will discuss the auction plan prepared by the Department of Telecom (DoT) after Cabinet approved the sale of unsold GSM spectrum in 1800 Mhz band and in the premium 900 Mhz spectrum band.

As per the proposal, the government is expected to get around Rs 25,316 crore from the auction in the premium 900 Mhz band, and Rs 14,579 crore from auction of unsold spectrum in the 1800 Mhz band. While in CDMA (800 Mhz) band, DoT may propose either to recommend the matter to Telecom Regulatory Authority of India or auction the radiowaves after the successful GSM spectrum auction.

DoT may auction more spectrum in Delhi, Mumbai, Karnataka and Rajasthan in the 1800 Mhz band, as compared to the spectrum it had put earlier for auction that ended on November 14. DoT may also put 15 Mhz of spectrum in 900Mhz and 1800 Mhz band in Delhi and Mumbai for auction and 12.5 Mhz airwaves in Kolkata.

For the premium 900 Mhz band, the government is learnt to have fixed minimum price of Rs 970.30 crore per block for Delhi, Rs 949.84 crore per block for Mumbai and Rs 227.44 crore per block for Kolkata circle. Premium 900 Mhz band provides double coverage of the signals compared to signals in 1800 Mhz band.

As per the DoT draft proposal, new players may be required to bid for minimum of 4 blocks in both 1800 Mhz and 900 Mhz band in Delhi and Mumbai region. While, the spectrum held by the existing operators, whose licenses are coming up for renewal, is also being put for auction.

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