The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is set to unveil its recommendations on satellite spectrum allocation shortly, as confirmed by TRAI Chairman A.K. Lahoti during a National Consumer Day event on Monday. These recommendations are expected to play a pivotal role in determining the future framework for satellite communication services in India, particularly in the realm of broadband connectivity.

The recommendations will outline terms and conditions for the allocation of satellite spectrum, a crucial resource for enabling satellite-based broadband services across the country. The government will review TRAI’s suggestions before finalizing its policy, signaling an essential step toward expanding India’s digital infrastructure, PTI reported from New Delhi.

During the event, Lahoti stated that the recommendations would be issued “very soon,” in response to questions about the rules governing satellite spectrum allocation. This follows TRAI’s extensive consultation process, which included an open-house discussion in early November.

The upcoming guidelines are expected to address a contentious debate between telecom operators and satellite communication firms regarding the allocation process.

Telecom Operators’ Stance: Companies like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have advocated for spectrum auctions, asserting that this approach ensures transparency and facilitates nationwide mobility services.

Satellite Service Providers’ Perspective: Firms such as Elon Musk’s Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper prefer an administrative allocation method, emphasizing its alignment with global best practices and the unique requirements of satellite-based services.

The recommendations are anticipated to strike a balance between the competing interests, fostering both market competition and innovation. The allocation of satellite spectrum is seen as a cornerstone for advancing India’s connectivity goals, particularly in rural and remote areas.

As India moves closer to integrating satellite-based broadband into its digital ecosystem, TRAI’s forthcoming guidelines are expected to set the stage for the next phase of the country’s telecom and satellite communication industry.