The wait for satellite internet services, including Starlink, in India might soon be over, while the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has announced that no recommendations concerning satellite spectrum are currently pending. This statement suggests a significant step forward towards the launch of satellite broadband services in the country, eagerly awaited by users and companies alike. Major players like Elon Musk's Starlink, along with Bharti Airtel's OneWeb, Jio, and Amazon, are all vying for a share in this emerging market.
Telecom Minister's Perspective
Despite TRAI's clearance, a key hurdle remains the method of spectrum allocation, while telecom service providers advocate for an auction-based approach, similar to 5G spectrum, while the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) favors an administrative allocation method. TRAI had previously sent detailed recommendations to the DoT in. May, which included clearance for Starlink to commence services in India. This long-standing debate has been a primary reason for the delay.
During the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025, Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated that the launch of satellite broadband services in India was contingent on two critical developments: the service providers' roll-out plans and the finalization of recommendations regarding spectrum pricing. He emphasized that the delay in service launch depends on how quickly the players can execute their strategies. TRAI's latest statement appears to address one part of this equation, paving the way for potential resolution and the eventual rollout of high-speed satellite internet across India.
