After two long days and six bidding rounds in total, the Spectrum Action has been completed. Reliance Jio became the biggest bidder with Rs. 55,122.65 crores for 488.35 MHz spectrum. Jio, with this fresh bidding, has increased its spectrum by 55 percent to 1711 MHz. It became the largest spectrum holding in sub-GHz and 2300MHz. Through this latest auction government was able to gather Rs—77,814.80 crores for a total of 855.60 MHz.
The only bidders for the auction of spectrum in 2021 are Reliance Jio, Airtel, and VI. They put their airwaves in 700MHz, 800MHz, 900MHz, 1800MHz, 2100MHz, and 2300MHz bands on bidding. According to the Ministry, the companies did not show interest in 700MHz and 2500MHz bands.
The 700MHz band coupled with the 3.5GHz band has the potential to accelerate India to top leagues in digital-enabled nations.
Bharati Airtel is the second-biggest bidder after the Reliance Jio with Rs. 18,698.75 crores for 355.45MHz. On the other hand, Vodafone Idea, operated under the brand name VI, is the third biggest bidder. VI has 11.80MHz for Rs. 1,993.40 crores.
“With the increase of spectrum, we are ready to expand the digital footprint in India and getting ready for imminent 5G rollout.” – Mukesh Ambani, Chairman, Reliance Industries.
We also have to note that this is auction is specifically for 4G bands, and the government is still planning for 5G bidding. Airtel, in a statement, said that it would cover 90 million additional customers.
Vodafone Idea in this year’s auction has the largest fraction of spectrum with a small fraction. The company is planning to allocate and use GSM services coming for renewal.
So that’s it for now. Thank you for reading, and please do share the article within your circles if you loved reading it. Also, keep an eye on this space to get relevant updates. Stay safe, and we hope to see you around.
