DoT, Trai push for satellite use for telecom services

Department of Telecom and regulator Trai today favoured use of satellites along with other available technology to provide digital connectivity in the country. “From its strength of ubiquitous coverage, universal footprint, fast roll out, some of the advantage of satellite connectivity will make it increasingly a medium of choice and this has already begun to happen,” Telecom Secretary J S Deepak said. He said that satellite connectivity has already become integral part of of various project under the Department of Telecom like Bharat Net, connectivity for Lakshadweep islands etc. “Looking at the diversity of the country … to make connectivity available to all satellite communication has its role to play,” Deepak said at India Satcom 2016. Trai Chairman R S Sharma said, “Unfortunately we are unable to leverage satellites. If satellite has become affordable, if it has become accessible then it must be used. This can deliver whole lot of bandwidth.” He said that all concerned government departments including the Department of Space, Department of Telecom Department of IT etc should sit together discuss the matter. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has recommended opening up of Indian satellite market for private players but could not find favour with Department of Space. “We have been advocating for an open Sky policy, and the National Telecom Policy, 2012, also talks very clearly about open sky policy and we need to implement that,” he said. Sharma said that there is need to simplify the process and reduce procedural delays in securing satellite bandwidth through a single window approach. “I am told that many broadcasters are waiting for a couple of years to get some transponders. It is not really a great thing.” Broadband India Forum Chairman and former telecom secretary MF Farooqui said broadband in India will have to be delivered not by one technology but through a mix of technologies. “Satellite Communication is one of the more important means of achieving broadband to the rural and remote areas and for fulfilling the goals of Governments Digital India initiative,” he said. PTI