The much-awaited 3G spectrum auction in India is expected to start on 9 April and will be followed by a BWA spectrum auction. While nine existing operators will be bidding for three or four slots (three pan-India slots and an additional fourth slot in five circles) of 3G spectrum, there are 11 service providers/companies competing for two slots of BWA spectrum.
This Viewpoint compares the 3G and BWA spectrum reserve price per MHz per capita with the global averages, and analyses the operators' likely bidding strategies, given the current market and economic conditions.