In order to strengthen coverage, state-run telecom operator BSNL is interested in buying 5 MHz spectrum in premium 700 MHz band in at least six service areas. BSNL though will not be participating in the auction. Instead, it will ask government to keep one slot reserved for it and will pay the market determined price for the circles after the auction concludes.
“Initially, we will focus on six circles — Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kolkata and Tamil Nadu. In the remaining circles, we have spectrum in 2500 MHz band,”
