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TRAI issues CP on spectrum assignment for satellite services
Mumbai: TRAI has released a consultation paper on terms and conditions for the assignment of spectrum for certain satellite-based commercial communication services.
This initiative follows a request from the department of telecommunications on 13 September 2021, asking TRAI for recommendations regarding the auction of spectrum for space-based communication services. In response, TRAI sought information from DoT via letters dated 27 September 2021 and 23 November 2021. On 16 August 2022, DoT provided the necessary information, which led TRAI to issue a consultation paper on the assignment of spectrum for space-based communication services on 6 April 2023, inviting stakeholder comments on the matter.
In December 2023, the Telecommunication Act, 2023 was enacted, prompting TRAI to review the implications of this new legislation. On 8 February 2024, TRAI communicated to DoT that the request for recommendations regarding the auction of spectrum for space-based communication services might need reconsideration. TRAI asked DoT to specify the issues for which recommendations were needed.
Responding to TRAI’s request, DoT sent a fresh reference letter on 11 July 2024, indicating that TRAI is invited to provide recommendations on the terms and conditions for spectrum assignment, including spectrum pricing. This request emphasizes the need to ensure a level playing field with terrestrial access services concerning the following satellite-based communication services:
1. NGSO-based fixed satellite services: These services are focused on data communication and Internet services, and TRAI is encouraged to consider the services offered by GSO-based satellite communication providers.
2. GSO/NGSO-based mobile satellite services: These services provide voice, text, data, and Internet services.
The consultation paper is now available on TRAI’s website. TRAI invites stakeholders to submit their written comments on the issues raised in the consultation paper by 18 October 2024, and counter-comments by 25 October 2024.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
