In an effort to figure out the likely revenues to be generated for the government from the 3G spectrum auctioning, the DoT figured out the availability of spectrum in different circles across the country. This is after the Defence Ministry agreed to vacate spectrum held by it for civilian use. The new figures also take into account spectrum available after allocation to BSNL and MTNL who have already been allotted one block of 3G spectrum in their areas of operation.

Earlier, 9 circles were identified as facing spectrum crunch for 3G services. But the scenario changed after Defence forces agreed to vacate spectrum. With this, 10 MHz of spectrum in the 2.1 GHz was made available in each circle for 3G services.

Under the new scenario, Kolkata, AP, Karnataka, TN, Kerala and Orissa will have 11 slots available for auction. Harayan and MP will have 9 slots while there will be 8 slots available in Punjab, 7 in Maharashtra, Bihar and Mumbai.

UP (East), J&K and Assam will have 6 slots. UP (West) as well as HP to have 5 slots followed by Gujarat, Rajasthan, WB and Delhi with 4 slots each. Clarity on North-East is not precise with 1-3 slots likely to be available.

The mapping should help DoT and the Finance Ministry in estimating the likely revenues to expect from the auctioning of 3G spectrum.