India's DoT (Department of Telecommunications) has approved the release of 3G spectrum to stated-owned telecom operators BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd.) and MTNL (Mahanagar Telecom Nigam Ltd.), according to a report by the Economic Times of India on August 7. Both BSNL and MTNL have been allotted 3G spectrums in the 2.1GHz band. It is reported that MTNL will roll out 3G services in New Delhi and Mumbai, while BSNL will provide services in other areas, according to EE Times.

Furthermore, both operators have also been granted WiMAX spectrums in the 2.5GHz band. BSNL and MTNL will have to pay for the 3G and WiMAX spectrums a charge commensurate with the highest bid in the auctions to be held for private telecom operators in the months to come, according to the Economic Times of India. Both BSNL and MTNL are expected to commence 3G telecom services by year-end 2008.