Yet another development in the Indian Communication scene
saw the Cabinet approving DTH broadcasting in India. DTH refers to distribution
of multi-channel television programmes in KU band by providing TV signals
directly to the subscriber's premises. FDI investment would be allowed
in the DTH projects upto 20 % with a possible another 29 % foreign
investment through FII or NRI s.
What is of significance to the Cyber Society observers is whether
DTH would allow Internet transmission to houses.
According to present reports, the basic license may not cover transmission
of Internet and Voice. It is likely that these may be subject to "Special
Value Added Licenses".
Another aspect of interest to the observers is the cost of such Internet
delivery if and when it comes.
The cost of Set top box is estimated to be around Rs 12000, more
or less the same as the cost of a Cable Modem but higher than the present
Set-top boxes that may deliver the Internet from the Cable operator to
the TV.
The monthly service charges for Cable Internet presently costs around
Rs 1000 per month and is likely to fall further. The service charges that
may be levied by the DTH broadcasters is yet unknown.
Also, will DTH Internet to a PC need a Cable modem in addition to
the Set Top Box? Can the set top box and Cable Modem be combined in a single
entity? .. at a lower cost are questions that need some technical
analysis.
The service will any way not be ready before January and will require
a few more months to stabilize. Initially, the pricing may be stiff. Until
such time, the Cable Internet will continue to be the best value for money.