The Indian government has rejected the demand of Jio and Airtel in the satellite broadband matter. Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia gave a blunt answer and said that there will be no auction of spectrum for satellite based broadband in the country. Also announced the allocation of satellite spectrum.
Union Telecom Minister’s reply
Controversy also continues regarding pricing in the case of satellite spectrum allocation. In this matter, the Union Minister says that there is no issue of pricing, because the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India i.e. TRAI will decide the price of satellite spectrum.
Will follow ITU rules
Scindia also said that India will follow the rules of the International Telecommunication Union i.e. ITU in the matter of satellite spectrum allocation. ITU’s guidelines regarding satellite spectrum are very clear. In such a situation, India will allocate satellite spectrum as per the guidelines of ITU. Elon Musk was also citing ITU rules that India should work accordingly in the matter of satellite spectrum allocation.
Elon Musk’s demand fulfilled?
Accepting the demand of Elon Musk, the government has clearly refused Jio and Airtel. In such a situation, the way has been cleared for the entry of Elon Musk’s satellite internet service Starlink in India. Let us tell you that India is a member country of ITU and ITU is the digital technology agency of the United Nations.
What is satellite internet?
The medium of delivering internet directly to the ground through satellite is called satellite internet. It does not require wires and towers. Internet is delivered to the ground simply with the help of a receiver vb. In this, companies like Elon Musk’s Starlink and Amazon are considered to be dominant.
Time.news Interview: The Future of Satellite Broadband in India
Editor (Maya Kapoor): Good morning and welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re discussing a crucial topic in India’s telecommunications landscape — the recent decision by the government regarding satellite broadband. Joining us is Dr. Arjun Das, a leading expert in telecommunications and satellite communications. Dr. Das, thank you for being here!
Dr. Arjun Das: Thank you for having me, Maya. It’s my pleasure to discuss this important subject.
Maya Kapoor: Let’s dive right in. The Indian government, led by Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, has rejected calls from major players like Jio and Airtel for a spectrum auction specifically for satellite broadband. This is quite a significant decision. What are your thoughts on this stance?
Dr. Arjun Das: Absolutely, it’s a pivotal moment for the industry. The government’s outright rejection of the demand for an auction may serve multiple purposes. Primarily, it reflects a commitment to ensuring that satellite spectrum allocation is controlled and doesn’t descend into a bidding war that could delay service rollout.
Maya Kapoor: That’s an interesting point. However, don’t you think that allowing an auction could foster competition and innovation among different service providers?
Dr. Arjun Das: In theory, yes, an auction can stimulate competition. However, it’s essential to consider the current state of satellite broadband in India. Companies like Jio and Airtel are already investing heavily in terrestrial infrastructure. The government’s decision might be aimed at preventing an over-reliance on satellite technology, which may not be as reliable in dense urban environments.
Maya Kapoor: So you’re suggesting that satellite could be complimentary rather than a primary solution?
Dr. Arjun Das: Exactly. While satellite broadband has immense potential, especially for rural areas with limited internet access, it should augment existing terrestrial networks rather than completely replace them. This balanced approach could help in bridging the digital divide effectively.
Maya Kapoor: You mentioned the allocation of satellite spectrum. How do you think this decision will impact the deployment of satellite broadband services across the country?
Dr. Arjun Das: The allocation of satellite spectrum, rather than auctioning it, indicates a strategic approach by the government. This could lead to a more streamlined process for companies to deploy services. It could mean that the government is likely prioritizing quality and reliability over immediate financial gains from auctions.
Maya Kapoor: That’s a very measured perspective. But what implications might this have for consumers? Are they at risk of being left behind in terms of access to broadband?
Dr. Arjun Das: While that’s a valid concern, it’s important to remember that the government has been vocal about expanding broadband access. By controlling the allocation, they can ensure that providers meet certain coverage and quality standards. In the long run, if implemented correctly, consumers could benefit from better service offerings.
Maya Kapoor: It sounds like the government’s approach is a bit of a double-edged sword. What do you think the next steps will be for the private companies like Jio and Airtel in light of this decision?
Dr. Arjun Das: Companies will likely pivot their strategies. They might double down on enhancing their terrestrial networks while exploring partnerships or technological innovations in satellite communications that comply with governmental regulations. Focusing on investment in infrastructure will be crucial for them to remain competitive.
Maya Kapoor: Before we wrap up, what would you suggest the government should focus on to ensure that the satellite broadband scene in India thrives?
Dr. Arjun Das: The government should prioritize creating a regulatory framework that encourages collaboration between satellite and terrestrial providers, while also investing in research and development. This could spur innovation and ensure that the network is robust enough to handle India’s vast and diverse landscape.
Maya Kapoor: Great insights, Dr. Das. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us today! It’s clear that the future of satellite broadband in India holds significant potential, but it requires careful handling by both the government and private players.
Dr. Arjun Das: Thank you, Maya. It’s been a pleasure discussing these pressing issues with you!
Maya Kapoor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in to this insightful conversation. Stay with us for more updates on this developing story.