The spectrum auction in 1800 MHz, 900 MHz, 2100 MHz and 800 MHz band, which commenced on Mar. 4, 2015 and ended on 25th March 2015 after 115 rounds over 19 days, has fetched over Rs 1098.74 billion.
In all 470.75 MHz has been put to auction in various LSAs. (in 800, 900, 1800 & 2100 MHz bands.) This compares with 390 MHz in Nov. 2012 and 426 MHz in February 2014.
There was robust activity in the all the spectrum bands and vibrant bidding. Prices have significantly increased in 50 of the 69 offerings with bid price being as high as 300% over reserve price in some instances. Over 88% of the spectrum on offer has been provisionally committed at a value of over Rs 1098.74 billion. Overall increases over estimated proceeds from auction is about 37%.
In November 2012 the total realization from auction of spectrum in 1800 MHz band was Rs 94.07 billion and in Feb 2014 Rs 61162 has been realized. A comparative table of the previous spectrum auctions is attached.
The current auction indicates that the Telecom Industry has full faith in the Government of the day and is confident of the future growth of the telecom sector and the economy of the country due to growth oriented policies of the present government. This also shows that a transparent & fair bidding system can help realize the real value of the natural resource.
Since the Supreme Court has given us the leave to proceed further, the provisional results are being declared. Of 8 participants in the auction, 7 have been awarded spectrum as per details attached.