EGoM approves start of spectrum auction process

The Empowered Group of Ministers (EGoM) headed by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday paved the way for the start of the spectrum auction process by approving the selection process of an auctioneer. “The EGoM has approved the initiation of the process for the selection of the auctioneer... We will begin the process immediately,” Department of Telecommunications (DoT) Secretary R Chandrashekhar said. The bids for the selection of an auctioneer would be invited and a request for proposal issued in a few days, he added.

The DoT has assigned the work for the design and conduct of the auction to J S Deepak, who oversaw the auction of 3G and BWA spectrum in 2010 and is now a joint secretary in the commerce ministry. The DoT also gave a brief presentation to the EGoM on the Supreme Court directions and a proposed plan of action. Sector regulator Trai made a presentation on its recommendations.