Reliance Jio has reiterated its call for satellite spectrum pricing to match the auction-based pricing model used for telecom operators, urging the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) to consider the full economic potential of the spectrum regardless of the assignment method.
In its additional comments to Trai, Jio stated, “All spectrum used in communication services has an economic value irrespective of the assignment methodology. Whether auctioned exclusively or assigned administratively, its value should reflect its potential.”
Jio’s position contrasts sharply with that of satellite communication (satcom) operators such as Starlink, Kuiper, and the Broadband India Forum. These players argue that satellite spectrum, being a shared resource, should not be auctioned and have recommended a minimal spectrum charge of less than 1% of adjusted gross revenue (AGR) with no upfront costs to enable affordable satellite broadband services.
Jio countered, claiming that satcom operators are seeking a "backdoor entry" and attempting to bypass fair pricing, which denies the government and public their due revenue. “Capacity building by mega constellations like Starlink and Kuiper is aimed at competing with terrestrial networks for broadband customers,” Jio remarked, adding that these companies should not claim to be providing a public service by avoiding spectrum charges.
Citing data, Jio noted that Starlink currently has around 75-80 satellites servicing India, accounting for 1.2 per cent of its constellation. Once operational, satellite coverage dedicated to India could exceed 2 per cent, delivering an estimated 29.1 billion GB of bandwidth—surpassing the 23 billion GB capacity of India’s private telecom operators combined.
Jio also urged Trai to initiate fresh consultations on spectrum auction methodologies, emphasising the need for transparency and critical examination of mega constellations' capacities, which could range from 200 Gbps to 1 Tbps per satellite.
Satcom players, represented by the Broadband India Forum, accused telecom operators of attempting to stifle competition by advocating auction-based pricing, which they argue would inflate spectrum costs and hinder affordable satellite broadband access.
Trai is currently finalising its recommendations on satellite spectrum pricing, a decision that could significantly shape the dynamics between telecom operators and satellite service providers in India.
