Satellite Broadband Service in India
India's telecom giants, Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, have announced partnerships with SpaceX's subsidiary, Starlink, to bring satellite broadband services to India. This collaboration aims to harness Starlink's expertise in delivering high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity, which it already offers in 120 markets worldwide.
Industry Readiness and Policy Framework
- Despite technological readiness, the launch of satellite telecom services in India requires a comprehensive policy.
- The government, along with the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), needs to establish rules and guidelines to facilitate this service.
Policy Decisions and Challenges
- The government has decided against using the auction route for spectrum allocation, opting instead for administered allocation, aligning with global practices.
- Key challenges include:
- Unresolved spectrum-pricing formula by TRAI.
- Uncertainty about spectrum availability and licensing duration.
- TRAI is considering a five-year license for Starlink, but a 20-year license exists for GMPCS, leading to potential discrepancies.
Security and Operational Constraints
- Starlink's application in India is pending government approval, including security clearances.
- Security conditions under consideration include local control centers and data storage within India.
- Proposals suggest Starlink initially target rural and remote areas, avoiding urban subscribers.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
India's satellite communication sector had restrictions post-2008 Mumbai attacks, with bans on devices like Thuraya and Iridium, later allowed for maritime use.
The new era of satellite communication promises significant advancements in education and healthcare, alongside business opportunities, necessitating proactive government involvement to bridge the digital divide.