The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is set to begin a fresh round of consultations on the allocation of spectrum for satellite broadband communications. The previous consultation process will not be carried forward due to the enactment of the new telecom law. Trai will provide recommendations on the allotment mechanism, frequencies, and pricing, among other aspects.
The Indian government has reiterated that spectrum allocation for telecom services will primarily be done through auctions. However, administrative allocation will be considered in specific cases such as satellite communications, sovereign functions, or the armed forces. This clarification was provided in response to ongoing legal challenges and ahead of the introduction of the Telecommunications Act 2023. The government has approached the Supreme Court for clarification on whether administrative allocation is permissible under certain circumstances where auctions are not feasible.
