Trai told to suggest pricing & terms for satellite spectrum

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has requested the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) to propose pricing, terms, and conditions for the administrative allocation of satellite airwaves under the newly enacted Telecommunications Act, 2023. This move comes as the Act mandates spectrum allocation for satellite services without auctions. Trai officials, while confirming the reference from DoT, anticipate providing recommendations after consulting stakeholders, aiming to finalize rules by year-end. This administrative spectrum allocation is intended for point-to-point connections, excluding direct retail consumer services, pending definition through forthcoming regulations.