The 3G spectrum auction is off to a smooth start today with top telecom operators, including Bharti, Vodafone, RCom and Tatas, in the fray to acquire the radio waves that could fetch the government up to 35,000 crore rupees.<br/><br/>When contacted, a senior Department of Telecom official confirmed the smooth beginning of the auction across 22 circles simultaneously. <br/><br/>Asked whether the Government would fetch its target of 35,000 crore rupees from the sale of spectrum, the official said it is difficult to guess any amount at this moment as it would depend on how aggressive the operators are in bidding. <br/><br/>There are nine mobile operators, including the big six that would bid for the 3-4 slots on offer. <br/><br/>The final bidders, include Bharti Airtel, Reliance Telecom, Idea Cellular, Vodafone Essar, TTSL and Aircel for pan India.<br/><br/>The e-auction has started at 9 am and will remain open till 7.30 pm everyday till the process is complete.<br/>