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Budget may give revenue targets from BSNL listing, 3G auction

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Press Trust of India New Delhi

The listing of state-run BSNL and the expected realisation from the auction of 3G spectrum are likely to find mention in the Budget proposal to be presented by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee.

Official sources said, the Budget statement may mention the 10 per cent stake dilution of BSNL under the head expected receipts of the government from disinvestment.

The auction of 3G spectrum is also expected to be a part of the budgetary announcements along with the government's anticipated collection of about Rs 25,000-Rs 30,000 crore from the auction. The details of the process including the reserve price and number of slots will be decided by an empowered Group of Ministers.

 

The telecom industry has sought rationalistion of multiple taxes and duties imposed on the sector in the Budget.

Taxes, including annual licence fees, spectrum usage charges, microwave access, and service tax comprise 30 per cent of the operators' adjusted gross revenue.

Industry body COAI has sought a uniform license fee of one per cent of adjusted gross revenue, excluding universal service obligation fees, across all segments of telecom. At present, operators levy 6-10 per cent of the AGR as licence fee depending on the circle.

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First Published: Jul 05 2009 | 2:01 PM IST

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