What is 3G technology and how is it different from 2G?
3G is the third generation of wireless mobile technology which represents an evolution over the existing 2G services provided by operators in
How many countries in the world have 3G networks?
At the last count, nearly 132 countries had operational 3G networks
How many mobile subscribers are there in the world? What percentage has migrated to 3G?
There are nearly 4.7 bn mobile subscribers worldwide. Nearly 13% of these have migrated to 3G
What is the growth projection for 3G subscribers in
One study suggests 570 mn 3G subscribers in Asia Pacific by 2013.
Who are the pioneers of 3G technology?
Licences in
How many 3G licences are available in
Three pan-India 3G licences will be auctioned in 22 circles. In 5 of the 22 circles, a fourth 3G licence will also be auctioned. So a total of 71 new 3G licences. BSNL and MTNL already provide 3G services.
Why have 3G auctions been delayed?
Till recently, the govt was unable to secure 3G spectrum from the Defence Ministry. The auctions have been delayed more than a year since they were first planned for
Jan 2009
Who can bid for a 3G licence?
Any entity that holds a unified or cellular mobile licence or has previous experience of running 3G services and gives an undertaking to obtain a unified licence after winning 3G spectrum
Will competition increase after 3G auctions?
No. Only existing operators have applied for 3G bidding. In fact, post 3G auctions, further consolidation of the sector is expected within 18 months
Are there any rollout obligations for 3G?
Street level coverage in at least 90% service area within 5 years. 50% coverage of district headquarters, of which 15% should be rural areas within 5 years
Auction Details
What are the payment terms for successful bidders?
Successful bidders will deposit the amount within 10 calendar days of the close of auction, failing which earnest money shall stand forfeited
When will 3G services be available in
BSNL and MTNL already offer 3G services. Other operators may be able to offer 3G services only by end of 2010, but in any case not earlier than Sep 2010
What is the duration of 3G licences?
The right to use 3G spectrum shall be valid for 20 years from the effective date, till the year 2030
What is the reserve price for 3G auctions?
The minimum reserve price for pan-India 3G auctions is
Rs. 3,500 cr
Will M&A guidelines apply to 3G licences?
Yes, guidelines as prescribed by DoT. Currently, if two or more operators with 3G spectrum merge, they will be allowed to retain only one 3G spectrum block per service area and have to surrender the remaining
