India’s Digital Communications Commission (DCC) has approved most of the recommendations made by telecom regulator TRAI for allocating spectrum to satellite communication companies. The move brings companies such as Starlink, Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite closer to starting satellite internet services in India, according to a Firstpost report yesterday.

Under the approved framework, satellite communication companies will pay a spectrum usage charge of 5 percent of their adjusted gross revenue (AGR). Operators serving government-designated rural and remote areas will get a 1 percentage point reduction, bringing the effective charge to 4 percent..

The spectrum will be allocated for five years, with an option to extend it by another two years. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) will now take the proposal to the Union Cabinet for final approval.

Starlink, OneWeb and Jio Satellite still need to complete security and other regulatory requirements before commercial services can begin. The companies also need spectrum to be formally assigned before they can roll out their services.

The move is expected to support satellite broadband services in India, particularly in rural and remote areas where traditional broadband networks are difficult to build. It could also increase competition in the country’s internet market and improve connectivity in underserved areas.