Will satellite broadband services truly be a game-changer?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 13)

 Current State of Broadband Penetration in India

• India is currently facing a broadband penetration gap of 48%, despite 25 years of terrestrial mobile services.
• The lack of progress in expanding broadband services could persist for another 25 years if the regulatory environment remains unchanged.

Debate on Spectrum Allocation for Satcom

• The allocation of spectrum for satellite broadband services has sparked heated debates.
• Legacy telecom operators are opposing new players, like satellite broadband companies, receiving preferential treatment regarding spectrum access.
• Some industry players argue for the auctioning of spectrum to ensure fair competition, given the substantial investments made by existing telecom companies over the years.
• Others suggest that spectrum should be allocated administratively, as is the common practice globally.

Satcom as a Solution to the Digital Divide

• Satellite communication (satcom) is seen as a potential solution to bridge the digital divide, especially in remote areas where the cost of laying fibre is prohibitive.
• Satcom can complement urban services by providing additional capacity for backhaul services.
• Satellites offer connectivity in areas that terrestrial networks cannot reach, making them particularly valuable for remote locations in India.

Global Perspective on Satcom

• Internationally, companies like AT&T view satellites as a complementary service to existing terrestrial services rather than a replacement.
• A significant number of satellites and a robust infrastructure are necessary to deliver consistent satellite service.
• The cost per bit for satellite-based services remains high, making them less viable for standalone use.
• AT&T plans to integrate satellite services with fiber and wireless services to offer customers a comprehensive connectivity solution.

 Potential for Satcom in India

• Despite challenges, there is potential for satcom to play a role in India’s digital ecosystem.
• Satcom could offer substantial improvements in availability and network utilization, especially in rural and remote areas.
• It will likely coexist with other technologies, such as fibre and wireless, providing more options for customers.
• However, the success of satcom depends on spectrum allocation rules and the ability to address the cost challenges.

Conclusion

• The future of satcom in India remains uncertain but promising.
• Regulatory decisions on spectrum allocation will determine whether satellite broadband can contribute to expanding India’s digital infrastructure, particularly in underserved regions.
• While challenges remain, satcom is expected to complement existing services rather than replace them, contributing to a more connected India in the long term.

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