Telecom Minister's Vision for the Industry

Jyotiraditya Scindia, the telecom minister, emphasized the importance of government support for the mobile industry, aiming to sustain at least four to five players to bolster the country's digital infrastructure. Amid discussions on satellite communications and the entrance of new players like Elon Musk's Starlink, Scindia highlighted the role of satcom services in achieving complete mobile coverage across India.

Scindia stated, "We want a telecom sector where we don't have a limited number of players... (and) therefore support to this industry is extremely important." He also addressed concerns about Vodafone Idea and BSNL being a burden on the exchequer, stating that support measures have been extended to all players, not just BSNL.

The Role of OTT and Satcom Services

Regarding over-the-top (OTT) communication services and satcom players like Starlink, Scindia noted that these services will complement existing networks rather than replace them. He explained, "All these will be complementary to existing networks. There is no single media that is going to satisfy every single customer across the world."

Regulatory and Technological Considerations

Scindia also touched on the regulatory discrepancies between telecom companies and OTT services, stating that the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is handling these matters. He further clarified the technological differences between terrestrial and satellite spectrum, explaining why satellite spectrum cannot be auctioned like terrestrial spectrum.

In conclusion, Scindia welcomed new satcom players like Starlink, stating that India is open to all companies that meet licensing requirements and fulfill all norms.