Spectrum auctions underway; radiowaves valued at Rs 3.92 trn up for bidding

Spectrum will be offered for assignment for a validity period of 20 years

Spectrum auction in India began on Monday, with 2,251.25 megahertz (MHz) radiowaves valued at Rs 3.92 trillion up for bidding.

The auction entailing seven frequency bands for mobile services 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2300 MHz and 2500 MHz bands is currently underway, industry sources said.

The current auction does not include frequencies in 3,300-3,600 Mhz bands that were identified for 5G services, which will happen later.

Successful bidders can pay entire bid amount in one go (upfront), or exercise an option to pay a certain amount (25 per cent for spectrum won in 700 MHz, 800 MHz,