ISpA Welcomes TRAI’s Satellite Spectrum Pricing Recommendations: Report

The Indian Space Association (ISpA) on Friday lauded the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) for its recommendations on satellite spectrum pricing, calling the move a balanced and forward-looking step towards strengthening India’s satellite communications ecosystem.

• Make Telecom Talk My Trusted Source
• 
• 

Also Read: TRAI Proposes Administrative Allocation of Satcom Spectrum With Five-Year Licensing Framework

TRAI’s Framework Earns Praise from ISpA

In its statement, ISpA reportedly said TRAI’s proposed framework successfully balances the government’s revenue interests with the imperative to keep satellite-based services affordable and accessible. The association added that the recommendations promote a level-playing field and ensure spectrum efficiency—objectives crucial for bridging the digital divide and enabling wider digital inclusion.

“We welcome TRAI for its forward-looking approach and clarity in the ongoing spectrum assignment process for satellite-based communication services. The Administrative Allocation of Satellite Spectrum enables shared access, fosters competition, and ensures maximum efficiency in spectrum utilisation-objectives that are critical for the growth of India’s satellite ecosystem and for bridging the digital divide,” said A K Bhatt, Director General, Indian Space Association (ISpA), according to a PTI report.

Also Read: Starlink Secures LoI for GMPCS Licence, Nears India Entry: Report

Spectrum Usage Charges

In its recommendations to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), TRAI suggested that satellite communication companies pay 4 percent of their adjusted gross revenue (AGR) as spectrum usage charges. The figure is higher than what global players such as Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper Systems had advocated for during consultations, where they urged for a charge below 1 percent AGR with no additional fees.