One wonders if Indian consumers will be able to experience 3G services at all even as some markets across the globe are moving towards 4G.
The DoT has now reportedly put off the revised schedule for 3G auctions originally scheduled to take place on January 30. In fact the date of January 30 was again 2 weeks late as compared to the first announced date of January 16.
The DoT has reportedly failed to provide any explanation for the further delay. But the move is considered to be due to the cabinet committee’s delay in approving DoT policies pertaining to 3G. The DoT had submitted its proposal to the cabinet to avoid any issues in future as encountered over 2G policy decisions.
Also there is some disagreement between the Finance ministry and the DoT over the base price of 3G and BWA spectrum. While the finance ministry wants the base price to be doubled the DoT is against it.
In their bid to play safe and sound the government agencies are depriving Indian consumers of an enhanced mobile services experience. And the delay in this case has been unfortunately too long.