The Indian Parliament approved the Telecom Bill 2023 on December 21, 2023. The move repeals the 138-year-old Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and underscores a commitment to the development, expansion, and operation of telecommunication services.
The bill aims to ensure widespread access to telecommunication services through satellite spectrum assignment in a liberalised and technologically neutral manner. The bill adopts a non-auction route and proposes to assign the satellite spectrum through administrative method aligning with global best practices, and emphasising global harmonisation and standardisation for satellite spectrum assignments.
SIA-India, backed by its satellite operation and services members such as Viasat/Inmarsat, Asiasat, Hughes Communication, SES, Intelsat, Telesat, Lamhas, and Omnispace, has advocated for progressive satcom policies, emphasising spectrum assignment through administrative licensing.
“The Telecom Bill represents a significant stride in aligning India’s satellite industry with global standards. We extend our appreciation to the Ministry for their efforts in understanding and incorporating the industry’s perspectives. SIA-India also expresses gratitude to the DoT, ISRO, INSPACe and TRAI for their valuable support. Our association remains steadfast in working collaboratively with the government to foster the development of a vibrant and competitive satellite sector,” said Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri, President of SIA-India.
“The Telecom Bill recognises the pivotal role of satellite digital connectivity in India’s strategic initiatives, enhancing rural connectivity, national defence, disaster management, and supporting sectors like agriculture, health, and education. With over 1300 Gati Shakti projects and various national missions, the demand for broadband connectivity is crucial. This aligns with the blurring lines between remote and near in sectors like shipping, ports, waterways, tolls, roads, and highways. The ongoing dynamics of migration, amplified by Covid-19, highlight the need for resilient and efficient connectivity. National missions like Smart Cities, Udaan, National Health Mission, New Education Policy, and PM Wani require multiple access technologies, where space-based satellite services become crucial. The Telecom Bill’s spectrum assignment for satellite services reflects the government’s foresightedness,” commented Anil Prakash, Director-General of SIA-India.
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