OneWeb India has received the necessary authorizations from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) to launch Eutelsat OneWeb's commercial satellite broadband services in India. This makes OneWeb India the first organization to be granted this authorization.
The launch of Eutelsat OneWeb’s commercial satellite broadband services in India paves the way for enhanced connectivity across India, addressing the digital divide by bringing high-speed internet services to the most remote areas. This not only fosters economic development but also facilitates improved access to education, healthcare, and various other essential services.
IN-SPACe is the government agency responsible for regulating space activities and granting authorization for conducting space activities in India. Once spectrum allocation is granted by the government, Eutelsat OneWeb can launch commercial connectivity services.
IN-SPACe’s authorization underscores the collaborative efforts evident between the public and private sectors, showcasing the potential for synergies that drive innovation and progress. By authorizing private entities like OneWeb India to contribute to the nation's space initiatives, the government demonstrates a forward-looking approach that leverages the expertise and resources of diverse stakeholders.
Eutelsat OneWeb already holds the necessary licenses from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to provide broadband services using satellite connectivity in the Indian market. The company has also obtained in-principle approval to establish and operate two gateways in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, which will provide high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity to customers across India.
Companies like Amazon, Reliance Jio's satcom unit, and Elon Musk's Starlink are also seeking approvals to launch their commercial broadband-from-space services in India. However, while licenses and approvals make a company eligible to offer services, they must also wait for spectrum allocation. The allocation mechanism is yet to be decided by the government.
IN-SPACe’s authorization to launch Eutelsat OneWeb’s commercial satellite broadband services not only signifies a triumph for the organization but also heralds a new era for India’s space and communication landscape. The benefits extend beyond the immediate gains for OneWeb India, impacting broader societal and economic advancements.
