New Delhi: Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance has urged India’s telecom regulator to reassess the scope and influence of Elon Musk’s Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper before granting satellite spectrum. The appeal comes amidst fears that global satellite operators could outcompete domestic players, as highlighted in a letter dated November 15.
Reliance’s letter, reviewed by Reuters, argues for auctioning satellite spectrum, a method it has historically supported, having invested $23 billion in previous auctions. This approach contrasts with Musk’s Starlink, which advocates for administrative allocation in line with international practices. Reliance expressed concerns that satellite providers like Starlink, with a potential capacity of 18 billion gigabytes of data, could undercut local players who already carry 15 billion gigabytes monthly.
The letter also called for a critical evaluation of mega constellations, warning that low-cost satellite broadband could disrupt the market. Starlink, with over 6,400 satellites serving four million customers worldwide, is currently seeking security clearance to offer services in India. If approved, it could enter the market with aggressive pricing, similar to its Kenya strategy where services cost just $10 per month compared to $120 in the U.S.
Amazon’s Kuiper project adds another layer to the competition. Reliance, with its 479 million telecom users and leadership in the Indian market, views these entrants as significant challenges. The government is reviewing feedback from all stakeholders and is expected to announce its decision by year-end.
