State-run operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has sought additional 5 MHz spectrum from the government in the 2100 MHz spectrum band for the roll-out of its 4G services. BSNL currently has 5 MHz spectrum in the 2100 MHz band that would be sufficient to get its 4G project rolling initially. However, the operator will need additional 5 MHz spectrum in the same band to expand the 4G services across the country.

According to the Detailed Project Report (DPR) recently cleared by the BSNL’s board of directors, the operator is seeking spectrum in the 2100 MHz band for all circles, except Rajasthan, where the operator is looking for spectrum in the 800 MHz band. As per BSNL, the total valuation of the spectrum it is seeking would be around Rs 96 billion. The operator expects to pay half of this amount by issuing additional equity to the government and the rest through revenue generated from business.