3G auction in India now set for January

3G auction in India now set for January

Indian government has announced that they would launch the much delayed 3G spectrum auction in January 2010.

This auction would be open to interested companies in India and abroad.

India has one of the fastest growing mobile markets in the world and 3G is likely to become the next popular frontier.

BSNL and MTNL are two state owned telecom giants who are already allowed to provide 3G services in the country.

Indian government is aiming to raise around 250 billion rupees through this auction.

Indian Department of Telecommunications spoke about the plans: “The government of India is keen that potential new entrants to the Indian telecommunications sector, as well as existing operators, should be encouraged to take part in the auctions. Interested foreign entities are allowed to participate in the auctions directly and apply for licenses subsequently.”