DoT has prepared a roadmap for the release of 3G spectrum, under which the defence ministry would vacate 25 MHz of spectrum by end-2006 and another 35 MHz by end-2007. This will ensure rollout of 3G services by only five of the eight mobile operators by the year-end. There will, however, be enough spectrum for all existing companies in 2007. DoT plans to first allocate spectrum to existing GSM operators like Bharti Airtel and Hutch, whose applications have been pending. Government clearances for the GSM plans of Reliance Communication, Himachal Futuristic Communications Limited (HFCL) and Shyam Telecom are likely to be delayed.
