Based on the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) recommendations, DoT is likely to start allocating spectrum for 2G services by the end of 2007.

Based on the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) recommendations, DoT is likely to start allocating spectrum for 2G services by the end of 2007. As a result, the exchequer is expected to earn Rs 130-Rs 150 billion in licence and spectrum fees over the next three to five years. Meanwhile, the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) has served a legal notice to DoT for delaying the allocation of spectrum under notified licence criteria to existing players like Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Essar and Idea Cellular. Vodafone Essar, Idea Cellular and Spice Communications have jointly asked DoT to treat their licence applications on a priority basis. Vodafone Essar has applied for a licence in one telecom circle, while Idea and Spice are awaiting licences in nine and 20 circles respectively.