In a bid to resolve the spectrum issue, DoT has prepared a settlement offer for GSM players.

In a bid to resolve the spectrum issue, DoT has prepared a settlement offer for GSM players. The seven-point settlement offer includes accepting Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) recommendation that existing service providers increase their subscriber base two to six times before being granted additional spectrum.

Although operators will not be asked to surrender excess spectrum already allocated to them, no additional spectrum will be allotted until they fulfil the eligibility criterion specified by TRAI. The settlement package also involves operators like Vodafone Essar, Idea Cellular and Aircel being awarded an additional 4.4 MHz of spectrum to launch operations in new circles. The settlement also states that auction of 3G spectrum will be conducted soon and mobile number portability will be extended across the country.