5G spectrum auction: What CEOs of the two of the biggest spenders – Airtel and Vodafone-Idea – have to say

The 5G spectrum auction concluded in two days, generating Rs 11,340 crore for the government. This is significantly lower than the anticipated Rs 96,238 crore. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) said that the auction ended after seven bidding rounds and only 140-150 MHz of the offered 10,523 MHz spectrum has been sold.
Bharti Airtel emerged as the top spender, primarily focused on renewing expiring licences and acquiring additional airwaves.While Reliance Jio spent less than expected to focus purchase on the 1800 MHz band to enhance their 4G and 5G coverage, Vodafone Idea (Vi) announced acquiring new spectrum in the auction.
Airtel has acquired 97 MHz spectrum by winning back spectrum that was expiring in the current year and additionally purchased spectrum to enhance its mid-band spectrum holding across the select circles. The company has spent a total consideration of Rs 6,857 crore.
“Airtel continues to judiciously acquire the right amount of spectrum to deliver the best possible experience to our customers. In this auction, we have bolstered our sub-giga hertz and mid-band holding which will significantly improve our coverage especially indoor,” said Gopal Vittal, MD and CEO, Bharti Airtel.
Airtel is the largest spenders with a total consideration of Rs 6,857 crore, followed by Vi at Rs 3,510 crore.
Vi acquired 50MHz of spectrum across low band and mid band spectrum (900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2500 MHz) in 11 circles at a total commitment of Rs 3,510 Crore. The company also enhanced its 900 MHz spectrum holding in 7 circles, namely Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Punjab, Rajasthan, UP East and Kolkata, enabling it to dedicate an adequate 900MHz band spectrum for 4G.
“VIL has strategically acquired spectrum in the select markets to enhance and strengthen its overall spectrum portfolio. This acquisition will enable us to effectively use dedicated sub GHz spectrum towards advanced technologies to enhance the experience we offer to our customers. As VIL embarks on its growth journey with the fund-raising plan in place, this spectrum acquisition will further strengthen its competitive position in the market,” said Akshaya Moondra, CEO, Vodafone Idea Limited.