The Indian government will immediately provide broadband spectrum to the six companies that won licences in the recently concluded BWA auctions. However, September 1, 2010 has been announced as a date to allot 3G spectrum to the successful bidders. Defence forces currently occupy 3G spectrum, which will be vacated only in August.

“The letter of intent will be issued next week and the broadband wireless access (BWA) spectrum will be given after that. They can start using the spectrum immediately,” telecom secretary PJ Thomas told reporters. 

“The letters of intent (for 3G) have already been issued. Prior to the auctions , we had said that 3G spectrum will be given on September 1. The allotment will happen as per schedule,” he added. 

Telcos are expected to roll out high-end data services on mobiles in 3-6 months of being awarded 3G spectrum.

The government also said that India will hold its next round of third generation spectrum auctions only after December 2012.“We have exhausted all the 3G in our possession during the recently concluded auctions,"  further he said.

The combined revenues for the Centre from the 3G auction that ended last month and the sale of broadband wireless access (BWA) spectrum is Rs 1.06 lakh crore. The government expected to get Rs 35,000 crore. 

Qualcomm, winner in four circles, has already made clear to use TD-LTE instead of WiMAX while Aircel has indicated that it may choose WiMAX or TD-LTE for 2.3GHz spectrum deployments or it can roll out both. Infotel has indicated to follow TD-LTE route.