TRAI Chief: ‘Consultation to consider all inputs on satellite spectrum’

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is currently consulting on the allocation of satellite communication (satcom) spectrum, with Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti observing that all stakeholder views are being considered before recommendations are made.

As Elon Musk 's Starlink escalates tensions with Indian telecom giants Mukesh Ambani 's Reliance Jio and Sunil Bharti Mittal over allocation of the spectrum, the statement has sought a revision in TRAI's consultation paper outlining norms for assignment of spectrum for satellite-based commercial communications services.

We have begun the consultation process following a reference that we received from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). The process encompasses all the issues referred to TRAI by the DoT, and we will take all inputs and views during this consultation," Lahoti said while speaking to reporters on the last day of India Mobile Congress.

Reliance Jio is pushing that the satcom spectrum be auctioned, which would bring in a level playing field for both terrestrial and satellite operators. Established companies should have a level platform when they purchase their spectrum just like acquiring a licence from an administrative allotment without paying for it through auctions like global trends do.

The entrepreneur, Elon Musk , went on to publicly condemn the demand by Jio for an auction, calling it "unprecedented." He questioned the complex nature of Starlink's entry into the Indian market, saying that an administrative allocation would make it easier for service offerings.

Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said the administrative allotment of satcom spectrum is in line with global trends and expressed support for the action. "The 2023 Telecom Act designates such allocations under "Schedule 1." So it's a move away from auction methods," he said.
"Spectrum does not come without a cost. The pricing will be determined by TRAI," Scindia said, reiterating the regulator's right to decide the administrative pricing structure. He pointed out the shared nature of airwaves in satellite spectrum as a reason individual pricing could turn out problematic.

Going forward, in the consultation process, the policy outcomes will have a very significant bearing on India's future in satellite communication in a global scenario becoming increasingly competitive in mobile telephony and internet sectors. All parties concerned will keenly watch the final recommendations of the TRAI.