Breaking News

Scindia: Satellite Spectrum to Be Allocated Based on Merit only

by VARINDIA 2024-12-17

Speaking at the India Economic Conclave, Scindia emphasized that auctioning satellite spectrum is scientifically impractical and globally unprecedented.

Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has shared that satellite spectrum will not be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, a method previously used for 2G services. Speaking at the India Economic Conclave, he explained that due to the scientific complexities involved, it is not feasible to auction satellite spectrum, as no country has adopted such a practice for radio waves used in satellite services. Scindia emphasized that auctioning satellite spectrum is physically impossible.

"How can you auction something that is shared? You can only auction something that is committed to a certain individual? So satellite phones, for example, you have to point your antenna, and that's when you get the signal, and it keeps shifting. Therefore, that spectrum is shared. Every single country across the world, because of its physics principles, satellite spectrum is always administratively assigned," the minister said.

The decision to adopt a merit-based allocation system aligns with international best practices, ensuring transparency and fairness. Scindia highlighted the importance of satellite communication in enabling seamless connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved regions, positioning it as a crucial pillar for India's digital future.

With the increasing demand for satellite services, driven by advancements in space technology, this policy shift aims to foster innovation, attract investment, and enhance operational efficiency for satellite operators while ensuring equitable access to this critical resource. However, telecom operators have opposed government proposals to assign spectrum without auction and through administrative process to satellite players.