Indian telecom operator Bharti Airtel has reiterated its commitment to satellite communication (satcom) services to connect remote and underserved areas across the country. The company stressed that its stance remains unchanged, rejecting any claims of a policy shift. In a statement, Airtel emphasised its long-standing focus on using satcom technology to provide high-speed broadband connectivity in hard-to-reach areas, including maritime, aviation, defense, and disaster recovery.
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Commitment to Satcom Technology
"Airtel has always supported the ushering in of satcom services to connect the uncovered areas in the deep far-flung reaches of the nation for maritime services, aviation, our defence and security needs as also for disaster recovery activities."
"Even six months back, Airtel had written a letter to Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Therefore, there is no question of Airtel having moved its stance," Airtel stressed.
Airtel's letter to the DoT in March 2024 read: "The recently released Telecommunications Act, 2023 has rightly included satcom in its ambit while assigning spectrum for satcom on an administrative basis. We continue to strongly support this approach."
"Satcom will act as a complementary service to terrestrial communication services in bridging the digital inclusion gap and serving specific use cases of non-retail customers, such as defense, cellular backhaul, or rural and remote areas."
"Accordingly assignment of satellite spectrum on an administrative basis can be done for such use cases. The only exception may be created for unhindered use by any government agency and for disaster management in any part of the country," Bharti Airtel's letter to the DoT read.
No Policy Shift Despite Claims
"Airtel has always maintained that it will use all technologies, including satcom, to ensure that every nook and corner of the country is covered for high-speed broadband connectivity. This position remains consistent," Airtel said on Tuesday, reiterating its current stance.
Airtel's Partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb
Airtel also mentioned its partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb, which operates a LEO constellation, through which it plans to provide satcom services in India and Africa. Eutelsat OneWeb, in a joint venture with Airtel, has already set up two ground stations, one in Gujarat and the other in Tamil Nadu, and is awaiting regulatory approval to begin commercial services.
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Licensing Process and Cooperation
Airtel also pointed out that satcom operators need to follow the same licensing process as telecom companies for urban and retail markets, including spectrum purchase, security compliance, and tax obligations. The company called for continued cooperation between telecom and satcom operators to bridge the digital divide and ensure connectivity for all.
"Satellite operators who want to provide services to urban areas and retail customers indeed need to go through the regular licensing process of any country, and in this case, India, to obtain a license; buy the spectrum; undertake all the obligations, including rollout and security; pay their license fees and taxes and they would be welcomed by the telecom fraternity."
"Therefore, mobile operators and satcom operators, who have worked in harmony for decades, can continue to do so to serve those who are still struggling to find internet connectivity," Airtel said in a statement.
