TRAI recommends big cut in base price for upcoming 2G auctions

10 Sep 2013 Evaluate

In order to succeed in the next round of spectrum auctions, telecom regulator, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recommended up to 60% cut in minimum auction prices for mobile phone spectrum on account of lukewarm interest from telecom companies in two previous sales. In yet another relief to most operators, including Bharti Airtel and Vodafone India, TRAI also recommended trading of airwaves between operators and suggested a flat spectrum usage charge, instead of one linked to the quantity of spectrum held.

The regulator, however, held its ground firmly on the controversial spectrum re-farming issue, reiterating that the operators holding spectrum in either 900 MHz or 1800 MHz bands should give up those airwaves on expiry of the licences and buy them back though auctions. Further, the regulator abstained from offering any suggestions on the pricing of the 800 MHz band, used by CDMA operators, saying no auction is required due to the lack of demand.

Thus with this, regulator has recommended Rs 1,496 crore per MHz as the floor price for pan-India spectrum in the 1800 MHz band, which is about 37% lower than the March auction price, where four service areas, including the crucial circles of Delhi and Mumbai, had gone unsold. Further, in the lucrative 900 MHz band, which is eyed by most operators as it is highly efficient and stands cheaper to roll out services, it recommended a reserve price of Rs 288 crore per MHz for Delhi, Rs 262 crore for Mumbai and Rs 100 crore for Kolkata. These rates are about 60% lower than the previous reserve price.

TRAI's recommendations, which need to be cleared by the telecom department and then the cabinet, come amid a deep economic slowdown in India as well as strife in a sector hurt by huge debt and intense competition. Approval of these recommendations would be win-win situation for both the parties, i.e., telecom players as well as government. A successful auction is important to the government, as this would help them to improve its strained finances and meet its budgeted fiscal deficit target of 4.8% of GDP in the fiscal year to end-March. The proposals need cabinet approval.

© 2026 The Alchemists Ark Pvt. Ltd. All rights reserved. MoneyWorks4Me ® is a registered trademark of The Alchemists Ark Pvt. Ltd.

×