Satellite firms seek separate permit in draft telecom rules

The draft policy has grouped all telecom services in four categories, ignoring unique needs of satellite internet providers

- Jatin Grover

Satellite communication service providers such as Hughes, OneWeb, Nelco and Viasat have urged the central government to recognize them as a separate sector, seeking lower entry fees and simpler rules to boost growth and attract investment.

They have raised objections to the recently-released draft Telecom Authorisation Rules 2025, issued as part of the Telecommunications Act 2023, saying the rules treat satellite services as just another technology rather than a full-fledged service, and have demanded a dedicated permit for them.

In a letter to Union communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on 29 September, the Broadband India Forum (BIF), which represents satellite and technology companies, also expressed concerns over the proposed high entry fees and financial requirements in the draft telecom rules under the Telecommunications Act 2023.