In a desperate plea, the Indian Space Association (ISpA), which represents start-ups in the space sector, has passionately advocated for the administrative allocation of space-based spectrum. As per a PTI report, Lt Gen A K Bhatt (retd), the Director General of ISpA, highlighted the importance of looking beyond the ongoing 2G spectrum controversy and considering alternative methods of allocation for the greater good.
Bhatt emphasised that the focus should be on the social impact and public benefit of spectrum allocation rather than solely on its economic value. He eloquently expressed how space technology can be a powerful ally in bridging the digital divide in the country. With rural internet penetration at a mere 38.93%, leveraging space-based connectivity can revolutionise education, healthcare, and other vital services for even the remotest areas of India.
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With unwavering conviction, Bhatt and his team at ISpA firmly believe that the administrative allocation of spectrum is the way forward. They caution against the fragmentation and unnecessary division that can result from spectrum auctions. Instead, they emphasise the need to protect the interests of smaller startups in the space sector, ensuring equal opportunities for growth and innovation. By avoiding auctions, particularly in areas such as telemetry, earth observation, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and remote sensing, ISpA believes that India can nurture a thriving space industry.
As the industry awaits the recommendation of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on space-based spectrum allocation, the fervent hope of ISpA is that their heartfelt appeal will be heard and considered. Their vision of administrative allocation is rooted in a deep understanding of the transformative potential of space technology for the betterment of society.
ISpA's passionate plea serves as a reminder that behind policy debates and technical discussions, there are real people with a genuine desire to make a positive impact. They strive for a future where space-based communication becomes a catalyst for progress, enabling access to essential services and empowering communities across the nation.
