Archive · 2 Jul 2025
Scindia: SatComm Spectrum Decision Expected in Months
Imagine satellites talking to Earth to provide internet and communication services.
The government is figuring out how to let companies do this.
A minister says the decision about how to use the airwaves for these satellites will be made in a couple of months.
He also says that the way they charge for using the airwaves won't be the same as for regular phone calls because it's a shared resource.
Companies like Starlink need permission and approvals before they can start offering services in India.
The government wants these companies to start soon to give people more choices and better services.
Jyotiraditya Scindia says TRAI's satellite spectrum recommendations are expected in a couple of months.
He stated the pricing model for satellite spectrum will not be the same as the telecom model.
Satellite spectrum is a shared asset, unlike dedicated telecom spectrum.
Key approvals like permission for satellite Earth gateways and IN-SPACe permission are required.
Scindia aims to enable SatComm operators to launch services rapidly to promote competition.
- Who
- Jyotiraditya Scindia, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), and various satellite communication companies.
- What
- TRAI's recommendations on satellite spectrum pricing and approvals are being reviewed.
- When
- The decision on the recommendations is expected in a couple of months.
- Where
- India.
- Why
- To establish rules and regulations for satellite communication services.
Industry Concerns
Government Stance
Spectrum Pricing Model
Industry Concerns
Some industry bodies raised concerns over the spectrum pricing.
Government Stance
The government considers the spectrum to be a shared asset and thus, it will not follow the pricing mechanism used in telecom.
- Minister
- Jyotiraditya Scindia
- Subject
- Satellite Spectrum
- Recommendation Timeline
- A couple of months
- Spectrum Type
- Shared asset
- Key Approvals
- Earth gateway permission, IN-SPACe permission, security clearance, spectrum
- Companies mentioned
- Starlink, OneWeb, Reliance Jio