Trai recommends new authorisation for satellite communication networks in India
The regulator proposes a new framework for spectrum assignment to entities that will supply capacity to telecommunications companies.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has recommended introducing a new authorisation called satellite communication network (SCN) under the Telecom Act, 2023, according to the Times of India.
These SCN authorised entities would provide capacity to telecommunications companies rather than serving consumers directly. They could offer this network as a service for a period of up to 20 years, with the possibility of renewing the authorisation for another 20 years.
The recommendations issued on Thursday suggest that fixed satellite service (FSS), mobile satellite service (MSS), and direct-to-device (D2D) services via satellite should be permitted through these networks. SCN providers may seek satellite spectrum from the central government or use spectrum assigned to their partners.
Three companies, including Eutelsat OneWeb backed by Sunil Bharti, Reliance Jio owned by Mukesh Ambani, and Starlink owned by Elon Musk, are waiting to begin satellite communication operations in India. Each company must obtain security clearance before seeking spectrum assignment.
Sources suggest that Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio might receive approval before Starlink due to security concerns and recent comments made by Musk on X regarding Ambani.