Indian telecom regulator TRAI has issued recommendations for assigning spectrum for satellite-based communication services, covering both NGSO-based Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) and GSO/NGSO-based Mobile Satellite Service (MSS).
For NGSO-based FSS providing data and internet services, spectrum in the Ku, Ka, and Q/V bands is recommended. For GSO/NGSO-based MSS offering voice, text, data, and internet services, the recommended bands include L and S bands for user links and C, Ku, Ka, and Q/V bands for feeder links.
The spectrum assignment will be for a period of up to five years, with a possible extension of two years based on market conditions. The terms, conditions, and pricing for spectrum assignment will remain valid for five years, extendable by two years, and any subsequent revisions will apply to all authorized entities.
To manage interference, relevant ITU-RR provisions will apply to authorized entities, which must also coordinate in good faith when using shared spectrum in higher frequency bands. The Telecom Engineering Center (TEC) will assess the need for a spectrum-sharing framework, including conditions related to power flux density (EPFD).
A study will also be conducted to determine coordination distances between satellite gateways operating on the same frequencies. Satellite Earth Station Gateways are to be set up in remote areas in specific IMT-identified bands, such as 42.5-43.5 GHz, and must be commissioned within 12 months of receiving permission from the government.
TRAI has set a 4 percent spectrum fee for satellite communication companies like Starlink, OneWeb, and Jio-SES. The fee is based on their Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR).
Spectrum charges for satellite-based communication services are structured as follows: For GSO-based FSS, the charge is 4 percent of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR), with a minimum annual spectrum charge of Rs. 3,500 per MHz. For NGSO-based FSS, the charge is 4 percent of AGR, plus an additional Rs. 500 per subscriber per annum in urban areas, while rural and remote areas are exempted from this additional charge, with a minimum annual spectrum charge of Rs. 3,500 per MHz. For GSO/NGSO-based MSS, the charge is 4 percent of AGR, subject to a minimum annual spectrum charge of Rs. 3,500 per MHz.
TRAI, in its recommendations , also set a minimum spectrum charge and a five-year tenure for satellite services. The telecom regulator recommended shared use of higher frequency bands and said satellite earth stations should be placed in remote areas to avoid interference with telecom networks.
5-Year Satellite Spectrum
TRAI wants to give satellite spectrum to companies for 5 years. This can be extended by 2 more years if needed. Companies using geostationary satellites must pay 4 percent of their revenue. They also have to pay at least 3,500 rupees per MHz each year. For non-geostationary satellites, there is an extra 500 rupees charge per subscriber in cities. Villages and remote places do not pay this.
Starlink, a company by Elon Musk, wants to start in India. Starlink asked for a 20-year spectrum deal. It has deals with Reliance and Bharti Airtel to sell its services in India, Reuters reports.
TelecomLead.com News Desk
