The government can give gifts to crores of mobile users of the country in the new year. Satellite broadband service can be started in India. Along with Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, Elon Musk's company Starlink and Amazon Coupier are also in the race for satellite broadband service. At present, the Department of Telecommunications can soon take a decision regarding spectrum allocation for satellite internet service. The government has given this information in the Lok Sabha during the winter session. Telecom regulator (TRAI) can finalize the terms of spectrum allocation by December 15.
Spectrum allocation will happen soon
The telecom regulator had held a meeting with service providers and other stakeholders on November 8 last month. The government can accelerate its allocation to start satellite service in the new year. If reports are to be believed, despite pressure from Jio and Airtel, the government is going to do the spectrum allocation administratively. These companies had demanded allocation of spectrum through auction process like terrestrial spectrum.
TRAI deadline
TRAI can give its recommendations to DoT regarding spectrum allocation by 15th December next week. After the recommendations are issued, it is expected to be approved by the cabinet by the end of December. The spectrum will be distributed after getting cabinet approval. At present, Elon Musk's company Starlink is completely ready to launch its satellite internet service in India. Starlink had applied for satellite broadband service in October 2022 itself. However, Starlink has not yet received its approval.
Service providers made preparations
On the other hand, Airtel and Jio have received NoC for satellite service from the Department of Telecommunications. After spectrum allocation, these companies can provide satellite based broadband services in India. Elon Musk's company Starlink and Amazon Kuiper may have to wait a bit for this. The government has asked both these companies to complete compliance. Starlink has agreed to meet these compliances.
Image Credit: India-Tv.