Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has stated that satellite telecommunications will complement existing terrestrial networks—such as those provided by Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Jio—instead of competing with them. He expressed strong confidence that India will achieve the fastest satellite communication rollout in the world, with the sector expected to grow into a $20 billion market by 2028. This marks the government’s first official statement on the future of satellite communication services in India.
Spectrum Allocation Framework: A Shift from Auctions
In a major policy shift, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed an administrative allocation of spectrum to satellite internet providers like Starlink, OneWeb, and Reliance Jio, replacing the conventional auction model. Under the proposed framework, satellite companies would pay 4% of their Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) as a quarterly usage fee, significantly lowering entry barriers and fostering industry growth.
Key Developments in India’s Satcom Ecosystem
- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a Letter of Intent to Starlink, signalling concrete progress in India’s satellite internet roadmap.
- Earlier, licenses had already been granted to Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite Communications, paving the way for a multi-player satcom environment.
- On May 9, TRAI officially recommended the non-auction-based spectrum allocation, aiming to ensure efficient resource utilization and encourage wider adoption.
These developments collectively enhance India’s standing in the global satellite communications space, enabling faster, more affordable satellite broadband access and streamlined regulatory processes.
