The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has approached the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) seeking clarity over the exact range of frequencies in 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands allotted to telecom service providers and government agencies, and the quantum of spectrum lying vacant in each service area. TRAI is of the view that it will be able to provide detailed recommendations on the reserve price for the upcoming auctions after availability of this information. 

TRAI began the consultation process for the next round of auctions on August 7, 2014. The process will enable TRAI to determine the reserve price for the spectrum in the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands. The auction will involve sale of spectrum held by mobile operators including Airtel, Vodafone, Idea and RCOM, whose licences are set to expire in 2015-16.