The Digital Communications Commission (DCC) has accepted Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) call to allow very-small-aperture terminal (VSAT) operators to provide satellite-based cellular backhaul connectivity to telcos.
The decision is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted mobile broadband coverage in remote and far-flung regions.
In this regard, DCC has approved TRAI’s recommendation, barring on the spectrum usage charge (SUC), which needs further deliberations. This will improve the ease of doing business, reduce capex requirements, allow better mobile services to consumers in areas where it will be difficult to fiberise. Further, it approved the RFP request for proposal (RFP) for Bharat Net and within seven days, tenders are expected to be floated to start the process.
