The participation of India’s two largest operators – Bharti Airtel and Vodafone – in the country’s forthcoming spectrum auction along with leading rivals boosts the prospect of a bumper return for the government.

According to a number of media reports, the big guns have submitted applications by the 15 January deadline to battle for 900 MHz and 1800 MHz frequencies.

The auction is due to start on 3 February.

The country’s top two operators will face competition from Idea Cellular and Reliance Communications, the country’s third- and fourth-largest operators respectively, according to a Reuters report.

More surprisingly is the suggestion that Reliance Jio Infocomm, which is currently engaged in building a 4G network, will also enter the ring.

Smaller rival Telenor India has also said it will also participate in the bid battle for new airwaves.

The signs point to a competitive battle for spectrum which can only drive up the value of bids. The government hopes to raise $1.8 billion from the auction.

However, bidders have until 27 January to withdraw their applications to participate in the auction.

The government’s Telecoms Secretary, MF Farooqui, said he was hopeful of settling any outstanding issues, such as annual licence fees, ahead of the 3 February start date.