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Indian government to allocate satellite broadband spectrum administratively, benefiting Starlink.
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Elon Musk confirms Starlink launch in India, pledging to serve the people.
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Decision faces opposition from Reliance and Airtel, advocating for spectrum auctions.
Elon Musk has welcomed the Indian government’s decision to allocate satellite broadband spectrum administratively, paving the way for Starlink’s launch in India. This move allows Starlink to avoid competitive bidding for spectrum access.
India’s Telecom Minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, confirmed the administrative allocation, citing international practices. However, Reliance and Airtel oppose this decision, advocating for spectrum auctions to ensure fairness. They argue that satellite companies should purchase spectrum like traditional telecom firms, especially for urban areas.
Musk expressed his commitment to serving India with Starlink, noting that an auction would be unprecedented. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) designates this spectrum for shared use among satellite operators. Global satellite operators, including Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper, support administrative allocations.
The decision highlights the ongoing debate on spectrum distribution in India. While local telecom players seek transparency through auctions, global satellite operators view spectrum as a shared resource. With Starlink’s launch imminent, India’s satellite internet landscape is set for significant changes.
