TRAI proposes satellite network leasing license for Indian telecom operators
TRAI just proposed a new license that would let satellite companies like Starlink or Eutelsat OneWeb lease out their networks to Indian telecom operators, and would take effect only if the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) accepts them.
The idea is to make it easier for telcos in India to tap into satellite tech, without having to build everything from scratch.
SCN provider license bars direct-to-consumer services
With this new "SCN provider" license, satellite firms could run and rent out ground stations and other network parts for up to 20 years.
Spectrum would be assigned for five years at a time, and payments would be based on revenue; plus, telecom operators could deduct what they pay these satellite providers from their own fees.
Direct-to-consumer services are still off-limits, keeping things focused on business-to-business partnerships and under the Department of Space's watch.