An important fallout of 3G spectrum wins in the recent auctions is the change in dependence on the current 3G intra-circle roaming (ICR) arrangements. Telcos that won fresh 3G spectrum would no longer be users of 3G ICR in such circles (and save on ICR payouts) whereas telcos that did not win 3G spectrum would continue to rely on ICR.
Before the March 2015 auction, Bharti had own 3G spectrum in 13 circles and relied on 3G ICR agreements with Vodafone and Idea in eight circles. None of the three had 3G spectrum in Orissa. Following this auction, Bharti has own 3G spectrum in 21 circles (all circles except Kerala). Consequently, when 3G spectrum is awarded and when 3G services are rolled out (3-4 months after spectrum award), Bharti would save on 3G ICR payouts in 7 circles. It would also start receiving 3G ICR pay-in in Orissa from Vodafone and Idea.
