Archive · 16 Sep 2025
DoT Challenges TRAI's Satellite Internet Charges
The Indian government is figuring out how much satellite internet companies should pay to use radio waves.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) thinks the prices proposed by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) might need some changes.
Specifically, the DoT wants TRAI to reconsider charging extra to urban users, and also wants a higher minimum charge for using the radio waves for mobile services.
Companies like Starlink, OneWeb and Jio are planning to offer satellite internet services.
Telecom operators are concerned that the low pricing will impact them negatively.
There are differing views on the best approach.
DoT disagrees with TRAI's proposed charges for satellite internet.
DoT seeks a review of the ₹500 urban subscriber fee.
DoT wants to increase the ₹3,500/MHz minimum spectrum charge.
DCC met to discuss TRAI's recommendations.
Industry groups have opposing views on pricing.
- Who
- DoT, TRAI, Satellite Internet Providers
- What
- DoT disagrees with TRAI's satcom charges.
- When
- Discussed May, DCC met Tuesday
- Where
- India
- Why
- To establish pricing for satellite internet services.
Telecom Operators
Satellite Internet Providers
Spectrum Pricing
Telecom Operators
Spectrum pricing is unjustifiably low.
Satellite Internet Providers
No level-playing field; vastly different technologies.
Pricing Level
Telecom Operators
Low pricing may impact their market share.
Satellite Internet Providers
Satellite market is only a fraction of telco revenue.
- Key Players
- Starlink, OneWeb, Jio Satellite, COAI, BIF
- Regulatory Bodies
- DoT, TRAI, DCC
- TRAI Recommendations
- ₹500 urban subscriber fee, 4% AGR spectrum charge, ₹3,500/MHz minimum spectrum charge
- DoT Concerns
- Review urban subscriber fee; Minimum MSS charge
- DCC Meeting
- Discussed TRAI recommendations
- COAI Stance
- Satellite spectrum pricing is unjustifiably low
- BIF Stance
- No level-playing field; vastly different technologies
Sources
Govt keen to launch satcom services by December-January: Sources
Govt keen to launch satcom services by December-January: Sources
DCC sends back TRAI’s recommendations on Satcom services for clarity on fee structure
DCC sends back TRAI’s recommendations on Satcom services for clarity on fee structure