Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Feb 22: Bharti group chairman Sunil Mittal on Friday emphasized the need for a balanced satellite communication (Satcom) policy, stating that while satellite connectivity is essential for rural and remote areas, regulations should not discriminate against terrestrial telecom providers in urban regions.
Speaking on the sidelines of the SOUL Leadership Conclave 2025, Mittal weighed in on one of the most debated topics in the telecom sector, urging TRAI and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to devise a fair spectrum-sharing policy.
Mittal acknowledged the importance of satellite broadband in bringing connectivity to dark and underserved areas, saying:
"There are still many parts of the world where people live without network coverage. The only way to bridge this gap is through satellite broadband connectivity."
He further noted that Bharti Group is already a key player in the satellite sector globally and is awaiting necessary approvals in India.
"We have already applied for permissions. Once we get the green light, we will launch our satellite services," he said.
Mittal stressed that while rural and hard-to-reach regions should benefit from a shared spectrum approach, the urban telecom landscape requires a policy that does not favour satellite operators over terrestrial networks.
"We have always supported shared spectrum allocation for rural areas. However, in urban areas, TRAI and DoT must ensure a fair policy that does not discriminate against terrestrial service providers," he added.
During his address at the conclave, Mittal also commented on the ideal market structure for the telecom industry, asserting that India should have three to four telecom operators, including BSNL.
He highlighted that India’s telecom tariffs remain among the lowest in the world, allowing users to access 30-60 GB of data per month for just $2.50 to $3.
"I personally believe India should have three to four major telecom operators, no more than that," Mittal concluded.