The Indian space regulator has granted approval to a joint venture between Reliance Industries' Jio Platforms and Luxembourg-based SES to operate satellites in the country. This move comes as companies like Amazon and Elon Musk's Starlink have been seeking approval to launch high-speed satellite communication services in India. However, further approvals from the department of telecoms are needed for the venture, named Orbit Connect India, to begin operations. Inmarsat and two other companies have also received approval from the Indian space regulator to operate satellites in the country.
India Opens Up Satellite Communication Market with Regulatory Approvals
The Indian space regulator, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), has granted approval to a joint venture between Reliance Industries' Jio Platforms and Luxembourg-based SES to operate satellites in the country. This move signals a significant step towards opening up India's satellite communication market, paving the way for high-speed satellite broadband services.
Background
The Indian government has been working on streamlining regulations for the space sector to attract private investment and boost domestic capabilities. In 2020, it established IN-SPACe to provide a single-window authorization mechanism for space activities.
The government's focus on space is part of its broader strategy to improve connectivity in remote areas and provide affordable internet access to all. Satellite communication plays a crucial role in connecting rural and underserved populations, particularly in areas with limited terrestrial infrastructure.
Joint Venture and Regulatory Approvals
The joint venture between Jio Platforms and SES, named Orbit Connect India, received regulatory approval from IN-SPACe to operate satellites in the country. Orbit Connect India aims to provide high-speed satellite broadband services to customers across India, including businesses, households, and government organizations.
However, further approvals from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) are required for the venture to begin operations. The DoT will need to grant a license to Orbit Connect India to use the necessary spectrum for satellite communication.
Other Approvals
In addition to Orbit Connect India, IN-SPACe has also granted approval to Inmarsat and two other companies to operate satellites in India. Inmarsat is a global satellite operator that provides mobile satellite services for maritime, aviation, and other sectors.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why is the approval of satellite communication ventures significant?
It opens up the Indian satellite communication market to private investment, promotes innovation, and enhances connectivity, particularly in remote areas.
2. What are the benefits of satellite communication?
Satellite communication provides high-speed broadband access in areas with limited terrestrial infrastructure, improves connectivity for businesses and households, and supports remote education and telemedicine services.
3. What role do companies like Jio Platforms and SES play?
They bring expertise in satellite technology and distribution networks, enabling the provision of reliable and affordable satellite communication services.
4. What other companies have received approval to operate satellites in India?
Inmarsat, as well as two other undisclosed companies, have received regulatory approval from IN-SPACe.
5. What are the remaining steps for Orbit Connect India to begin operations?
Orbit Connect India requires a license from the Department of Telecommunications to use the necessary spectrum for satellite communication.
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