India, May 9 -- In a bid to accelerate the rollout of satellite-based internet services in India, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on Friday, 9 May, proposed the administrative allocation of spectrum for satellite communication (satcom) services. The regulator has suggested a usage fee comprising a minimum annual charge of Rs 3,500 per MHz spectrum block, along with a levy set at 4% of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR). The spectrum allocation would be valid for five years, with the possibility of a two-year extension.

The proposals relate to the assignment of spectrum for both Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) based on Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) and Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) operating via Geostationary or Non...