The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is set to release its recommendations on spectrum allocation for satellite broadband services, including pricing, by December 2024. Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti confirmed this during an industry event, stating the recommendations would follow an in-depth analysis of industry feedback, international standards, and ITU guidelines.
Industry Debate Over Spectrum Allocation
Key players in the telecom and satellite sectors are divided over how the spectrum should be assigned:
- Telecom giants like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel argue for spectrum auctions to ensure fair competition.
- Satellite players like Elon Musk’s Starlink and Jeff Bezos’ Amazon Kuiper advocate administrative allocation at lower costs, citing the need for affordable satellite broadband services in rural and remote areas.
Lobby groups, including the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) and the India Space Association (Ispa), have been vocal in their positions, leading to heightened tensions in the sector. Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has hinted at administrative allocation but with a cost, pending TRAI’s recommendations.
Push for Affordable Satellite Broadband
Starlink and Amazon Kuiper are urging for predictable policies and affordable spectrum pricing to expand satellite-based internet services in underserved regions. However, they still lack permits for commercial operations in India. Currently, only Reliance Jio and Bharti-backed OneWeb Eutelsat hold the necessary licences for satellite broadband in the country.
Tackling Spam and Fraud
Lahoti also highlighted TRAI’s recent steps to combat spam and fraud:
- 18 lakh phone numbers have been deactivated, and 800 entities blacklisted for spam.
- Collaboration with ministries and regulators is ongoing to curb unsolicited commercial communications (UCC).
- TRAI has urged action against fraudulent calls on platforms like WhatsApp.
Improved Service Quality Monitoring
Starting April 2025, telecom companies will submit monthly reports on key performance metrics to ensure better quality of service for consumers.
With these initiatives, TRAI is aiming to balance innovation, competition, and consumer protection in India’s rapidly evolving telecom landscape.
Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by investment experts on Sharepriceindia.com are their own and not those of the website or its management. Sharepriceindia.com advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.
