US-based AT&T announced on October 1 that it will apply for 2G mobile licenses in all 23 telecom circles of India through the joint venture formed with India's Mahindra Telecommunications.

AT&T currently holds a 74% stake in the joint venture, and Mahindra the remaining stake. According to India's Financial Times, AT&T also stated that should it successfully obtain the said licenses, it plans to apply for advanced 3G licenses as well. At present, AT&T already has licenses for operating national long-distance and international calls in India.

As of October 1, the closing date for mobile license applications, 12 telecom operators in total had submitted their applications. Known applicants include AT&T, DLF, Unitech, and Parsvnath Developers.