Telecom regulator TRAI on Friday recommended a 4 percent spectrum charge of annual revenue on Satellite Communication Services Providers like Ilon Musk’s Starlink. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), in its recommendation to the Department of Telecommunications, said that service providers offering service in urban areas will have to pay an extra charge of Rs 500 per customer. However, these companies will not have to pay any extra charge for services in rural areas.
3500 rupees per MHz to be minimum annual spectrum fee
TRAI recommends that the satellite broadband spectrum be allotted for 5 years, which can later be extended for 2 years. 4 percent of the adjusted gross revenue (AGR) will have to pay both the satellite communication companies serving through the satellite located in the landlords (GSO) and the non-Equational Classes (NGSO). The minimum annual spectrum fee will be Rs 3500 per MHz.
Satellite communication service can play an important role in disadvantaged areas
TRAI chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti issued recommendations that satellite communication service can play an important role in establishing contacts in the disadvantaged areas where telecom networks are not available. These services also have an important role in disasters, rescue and relief operations.
Starlink found letter of intent
SpaceX, the world’s wealthiest man, was given a letter (LOI) to its broadband internet service Starlink two days ago. Now the US billionaire company Starlink will have to obtain a license before starting its services in India. SpaceX has already tied up with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel for the introduction of Starlink’s broadband internet services in India.
With PTI inputs
