Kumar Mangalam Birla-controlled Idea Cellular may soon launch its 3G services in Punjab. TelecomTiger has got exclusive information that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has allotted 3G spectrum to Idea Cellular in Punjab circle.
 
The department has allotted spectrum to Idea Cellular for a license period of 16 years and 9 months. Usually Spectrum is allotted to a telecom company for a period of 20 years. But in this case, DoT has curtailed its license period for three years and three months.

       
 
Idea cellular had won spectrum in Punjab circle in 3G auction in 2010. Even though it made a payment of Rs 320cr, DoT did not allot spectrum to it. The department had objected to its merger with BK Modi-owned Spice Telecom.
 
DoT had alleged that Idea had merged with Spice Telecom license without seeking its permission. DoT had also imposed penalty of Rs 600cr on Idea Cellular for violating license conditions.
 
Last month, Idea Cellular had moved to Supreme Court against DoT. SC had ordered DoT to look into the matter and disposed issues pending on this matter.