The government has deferred 3G spectrum auction to January 30, delaying it by 15 days.
Telecom Secretary in an internal letter said, "In view of the large number of requests from potential bidders, it is only fair that they should be given some time. Accordingly, it is decided that the auction process be shifted by a fortnight and the CCEA decision will be available by that time and we will have a clear mandate to proceed as per their decision."
As per the new revised timeline, applications will now be invited from January 9, 2009 and the final date will be January 15.
The Department of Telecom (DoT) will announce the ownership details of the 3G applicants on January 16, which was the earlier date of spectrum auction and on January 20 bidder ownership compliance certificate for the 3G auction will be given.
It will shortlist pre-qualified bidders for the 3G spectrum auction on January 22 and while the mock auction will take place between January 27 and 28. And, the 3G spectrum auction will take place on January 30.