No auction of 2G spectrum: Raja

NEW DELHI: Government on Thursday ruled out the possibility of auctioning 2G spectrum for mobile services, even as it looks on the process of implementation of mobile number portability across the country.

"We will go with the existing norms for allocation of spectrum. There will be no auction of 2G spectrum as recommended by telecom regulator TRAI," Communications Minister told reporters on the sidelines of an event here.

However, spectrum for 3G services and Wimax will be allotted through auction, he said. "We would go with TRAI's recommendations as they are legitimate," Raja said.

The minister earlier in the day said that Defence Ministry is likely to release some spectrum by year end.

Asked if the government would implement number portability, he said the ministry is still considering various aspects of issue. Number portability allows users to change their service provider while retaining their original mobile number.

"This issue (number portability) has to be discussed with all existing operators as ultimately they have to implement it," he said refusing to give further details.