The 3G spectrum auctions have commenced on schedule for all the 22 circles in the country. The e-auction process, which began on April 9, 2010, will be held between 9 a.m. and 7.30 p.m. on all days (barring Sundays and national holidays). The multiple round auctions will continue till the number of bidders equals the number of slots available in each service area. The base price has been set at Rs 35 billion for a pan-Indian 3G spectrum slot. During each round, the price will be hiked from 1 to 10 per cent over the previous round’s price, depending on the demand. The bid data will be made public after the auction closes, and the successful bidders will be allowed to offer 3G services on a commercial basis from September 2010. The broadband wireless spectrum auctions are expected to commence two days after the close of the 3G auctions.
