Archive · 19 Jun 2025
India's Telecom and Satcom Firms Clash Over Spectrum Pricing
Imagine two groups fighting over how much it costs to use the internet from space.
One group, the telecom companies, says the price is too low and unfair.
The other group, the satellite companies and tech firms, says it's a fair price.
They also say that telecom companies are trying to slow down better internet for everyone.
They argue that their services are very different, and the price is not that low.
The government is trying to figure out the best price so that everyone can have internet.
Telecom operators and satellite firms are clashing over satellite spectrum pricing.
Telecom operators argue the pricing is too low and non-transparent.
Satellite and tech companies, represented by BIF, say the arguments for a level playing field are unsound.
BIF claims telecom operators are delaying digital progress.
Trai has recommended 4% of adjusted gross revenue as satcom spectrum charges.
- Who
- Telecom operators vs. satellite and tech companies.
- What
- Disagreement over satellite spectrum pricing.
- When
- Recent developments.
- Where
- India
- Why
- Disagreement on fair pricing and a level playing field for satellite internet services.
Telecom Operators (COAI)
Satellite & Tech Companies (BIF)
Spectrum Pricing
Telecom Operators (COAI)
Satellite spectrum pricing is unjustifiably low, non-transparent, and does not ensure a level playing field.
Satellite & Tech Companies (BIF)
Satellite and tech firms should not be favored, and pricing should consider the differences in technologies and services.
Market Competition
Telecom Operators (COAI)
Satcom internet will compete with terrestrial services.
Satellite & Tech Companies (BIF)
Terrestrial and satellite services are complementary.
- Spectrum Charge Recommendation
- 4% of adjusted gross revenue or ₹3,500 per MHz, whichever is higher.
- Satellite Market vs. Telecom Revenue
- Satcom market is 0.2% of telco revenue.
- Satellite Device Cost
- Around ₹25,000
- Terrestrial Device Cost
- Around ₹5,000
- Starlink Global Connections
- Less than 5 million
- BIF represents
- Big Tech and satellite companies.