5G spectrum auctions: Bharti Airtel likely largest bidder, govt mops up around Rs 11,300 crore

The government collected a modest Rs 11,340.78 crore from its second 5G spectrum sale, with Bharti Airtel emerging the top buyer of airwaves at an expectedly muted auction that lasted for seven rounds over Tuesday and Wednesday.

Demand was limited this time because a large part of the spectrum required for 5G services was auctioned as recently as in 2022, said communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia. “TSPs (telecom service providers) have taken spectrum not only for continuity of service but for expanding services,” he said in a statement.