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A senior executive from Reliance Jio has stated that the spectrum allocation process and policy for satellite-based communications (satcom) should be the same as for terrestrial networks in India. According to the executive, satcom and terrestrial networks essentially provide the same service to the same device and customers.

The executive highlighted that satellite-based communication will coexist with 5G and 6G technologies in India, and confirmed that Jio plans to be a competitive player in the satcom space. He emphasized that the satcom of today is not the same as in the past, as it can now deliver similar services to the same phone using the same 3GPP standard.

Jio has partnered with SES, a company offering medium earth orbit (MEO) satellite technology, which is capable of delivering gigabit, fiber-like services from space. This satellite network will also enhance the availability and scale of Jio 5G in remote areas.

The Jio executive claimed that they are the first company to launch an NGSO operational gateway in India, demonstrating live data from the modem terminal installed in the Gir Forest. They also successfully turned up four sites with satellite backhaul using the demonstration spectrum.

Jio aims to launch JioSpaceFiber, India’s first satellite-based giga-fiber service, to provide high-speed broadband connectivity in inaccessible areas. The service will be accessible nationwide at affordable prices.

Regarding the demand from Indian telecom operators for a fair share contribution from OTT (over-the-top) players, the executive acknowledged that these players have a disproportionate amount of traffic on the operators’ networks. While they have not approached anyone directly, the industry has urged regulators to address this issue and ensure a balanced business environment.

The executive also suggested using the Universal Service Obligation (USO) Fund to facilitate the transition from 2G to 4G or 5G handsets in the country. He believes that the industry has a responsibility to continue providing connectivity and communication to the 240 million 2G users and should not exclude them from the benefits of AI. He proposed utilizing the Rs 76,000 crore sitting in the USO fund to accelerate an inclusive digital vision.

According to the Jio executive, the company has over 1.1 million 5G cells on its 5G SA network, making it the largest 5G SA network globally (excluding China).

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