NEW DELHI: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is set to consult with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) regarding the allocation of spectrum and licensing for satellite communication (satcom) services. Sources indicate that DoT will seek
Trai
‘s recommendations on pricing and methodology for spectrum allocation, as well as clarify the scope of services that satcom companies with administratively allocated spectrum can offer.
Trai had previously initiated a consultation on the assignment of spectrum for space-based communication services in April 2023 but returned the reference to DoT following the announcement of the new Telecommunication Act. Satcom technology enables internet connectivity in remote areas or challenging terrains, and several companies, including Bharti Group-backed
OneWeb
,
Reliance Group Jio Satcom
, and Elon Musk-owned Starlink, have shown interest in providing these services in India.
“DoT will seek views of Trai on pricing and methodology to allocate spectrum for space based communication services. It may also look to fine-tune existing licences to bring in full clarity on the kind of services that satcom companies with administratively allocated spectrum can provide,” said a source, who did not wish to be named.
OneWeb and Jio Satcom have already been issued GMPCS (satellite telephony) and VSAT licenses, while Starlink has applied for a permit to commence satcom services in India. Starlink currently dominates the satcom space with a constellation of 4,000 low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, while OneWeb has over 600 LEO satellites.
The source also highlighted the need to fine-tune VSAT licenses, as their current norms are not entirely aligned with the provisions of the new Telecommunication Act. The Act allows satellite communication companies to obtain spectrum without auction for point-to-point communications. However, the provisions permitting VSAT service operators to provide internet services to multiple independent subscribers may be interpreted differently than intended in the Telecommunication Act 2023.
“Hence, there is a need felt to fine-tune licences for satcom services. A decision will be taken based on Trai’s recommendation on the permits that should be issued to satcom service providers,” the source said.