This race to dominate India’s satellite internet market has intensified, with major players preparing to reshape the country’s internet connectivity landscape.
Major companies like Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, Elon Musk’s Starlink, and Amazon Kuiper are gearing up to launch satellite internet services in India. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is expected to submit its recommendations on spectrum allocation for satellite internet to the government by December 15.
Satellite Internet Coming Soon to India
India is set to witness the launch of a new form of internet service—satellite internet. Leading telecom and tech giants, including Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, Starlink, and Amazon Kuiper, are preparing to introduce this service. The government is expected to allocate the necessary spectrum soon, paving the way for these companies to roll out their services.
TRAI is currently drafting regulations for satellite internet services. Discussions have been held with telecom operators to address the modalities of spectrum allocation. While companies like Jio and Airtel advocate for spectrum auctions, the government is likely to opt for a simpler allocation process.
TRAI’s Recommendations and Government Approval
TRAI is expected to deliver its recommendations on spectrum allocation for satellite internet by December 15. Following this, the government will evaluate and approve these recommendations. Only after this approval will the spectrum allocation process begin, enabling companies to launch their satellite internet services.
Elon Musk Starlink Big Plan
Among the contenders, Elon Musk’s Starlink is currently ahead in the race. Starlink applied for approval to launch satellite internet services in India as early as October 2022. However, the timeline for government approval and the official launch of Starlink’s services in India remains uncertain.
Once Elon Musk enters in Indian satellite internet market with his plans it may pose a big challenge in front of existing Indian players like Mukesh Ambani’s Jio and Sunil Mittal’s Airtel.
Permissions For Airtel and Jio
Airtel and Jio have already received the green light from the government to proceed with satellite internet services. However, Starlink and Amazon Kuiper are still required to meet certain conditions before they can secure approval. Starlink has expressed its commitment to fulfilling these conditions to commence operations in India soon.
How TRAI and the government proceed with spectrum allocation will determine who emerges as the leader in this revolutionary sector.