BS EDIT: Policy Clarity for Satellite Internet in India

By Business StandardPublished On May 13, 2025

A Regulatory Breakthrough

TRAI has proposed pricing and spectrum norms for satellite broadband, offering long-awaited clarity to service providers

Starlink Gets the Go-Ahead

After a 3-year wait, Starlink has secured an LoI from DoT — a major step toward satellite internet rollout in India

Administered Spectrum Wins

Instead of auctions, spectrum will be allocated administratively — aligning with global norms for this pooled resource

Supportive Pricing Structure

No upfront spectrum fee; operators will pay 4% AGR, ~₹3,500 per MHz/year, and subscriber fees only in urban areas

Security & Flexibility

Starlink has agreed to local data storage. The government, in turn, showed flexibility on non-viable compliance demands

Digital Inclusion Ahead

With telcos ready and policy near final approval, satellite broadband may soon bridge India's rural connectivity gap