Vikrant Shekhawat : Dec 06, 2024, 10:40 PM
Starlink internet: The dream of satellite broadband service in India is going to become a reality soon. Crores of mobile users of the country can get the benefit of satellite based internet service early next year. This initiative will be especially beneficial for those areas where there have been difficulties in reaching broadband services till now.The Department of Telecommunications and TRAI are constantly planning to implement this service smoothly. Also, new policies related to possible changes in the rules of satellite license and spectrum allocation are also being prepared.Satellite Broadband: A Digital RevolutionThe satellite internet service aims to provide broadband connectivity to remote and rural areas of the country. This service will provide internet connection through satellites instead of towers installed on the ground, which will greatly increase the existing limited scope of connectivity.Companies and competitionMany big companies are involved in the race to launch satellite internet service in India:Airtel's OneWeb: Which plans to provide global connectivity through satellite network.Jio's SES: A joint venture working on satellite broadband services.Amazon's Kuiper: Which wants to strengthen its hold through satellite internet.Elon Musk's Starlink: Whose technology is already popular in many countries and is preparing to make its presence felt in India.Relief in spectrum allocation and license rulesThe Department of Telecommunications has proposed changes in the rules for spectrum allocation to make satellite internet service easier.Relief in compliance: Changes in rules will make it easier for companies to set up remote management and fixed satellite terminals.Administrative allocation: According to reports, the government will allocate spectrum administratively, not through auction. This move can ensure a faster start of satellite internet services.Suggestions sought from companiesThe government has sought inputs from companies on proposals related to satellite internet service.Starlink: Is positive about the change in rules and has said to give its suggestions soon.Amazon: Has sought time till January to give inputs. Airtel and others: Airtel has discussed with the government, while other companies are also asking for time.Information received in the winter sessionIn the winter session of the Lok Sabha, the government talked about speeding up the process of spectrum allocation for satellite internet services. TRAI is going to finalize the terms of spectrum allocation by December 15.Prospects and challenges for IndiaSatellite broadband service will take India's digital infrastructure to new heights. The availability of broadband in rural and remote areas will improve education, health and business.However, despite improvements in the spectrum allocation process and licensing, competition between companies and technical challenges may cause delay in implementing this service.ConclusionThe launch of satellite internet service in India will give a new dimension to the Digital India campaign. This service will not only connect remote areas to the Internet, but will also strengthen the country's digital economy. If the government and companies together implement it on time, then 2024 can become the year of satellite internet for India.