TRAI expects satellite communication framework to provide regulatory certainty, boost D2D deployment: Chairman
New Delhi, July 22
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India expects its ongoing consultation on satellite communication network authorisation and direct-to-device services to provide regulatory certainty and facilitate the seamless deployment of satellite communication networks in the country, Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti said on Wednesday.
Addressing the India Space Policy Conference 2026 in New Delhi, Lahoti said the consultation process on the framework for satellite communication network (SCN) authorisation and assignment of spectrum has been completed, including an open house discussion held earlier this month.
"The outcome of this consultation is expected to bring regulatory certainty and facilitate seamless deployment of satellite communication networks, including D2D, while promoting competition, innovation and enhanced digital connectivity," he said.
Lahoti said the consultation has examined issues related to satellite communication network authorisation, spectrum assignment and the enablement of D2D services. He noted that questions around D2D using mobile satellite service (MSS) spectrum and IMT spectrum, including interference management and differences in spectrum availability across licensed service areas, have been deliberated as part of the process.
Highlighting TRAI's recent work on satellite communications, Lahoti said the regulator had recommended an administrative framework for assigning spectrum for certain satellite-based commercial communication services.
The recommendations propose assigning spectrum for non-geostationary fixed satellite services (NGSO-FSS) and geostationary or non-geostationary mobile satellite services (MSS) for an initial period of five years, with a provision for extension of up to two years.
He said the recommended framework also proposes spectrum usage charges as a percentage of service revenue, subject to a minimum annual charge, with the objective of promoting innovation and investment while keeping satellite services affordable and competitive.
Lahoti said satellite communications are expected to play a key role in providing connectivity to remote, rural and geographically challenging areas while strengthening communication infrastructure during disasters and supporting sectors such as maritime, aviation and the Internet of Things (IoT).
"The opportunities before us are both vast and transformative. India is actively shaping the global digital narrative," Lahoti said, adding that TRAI remains committed to developing a transparent and forward-looking regulatory framework that supports innovation, competition and inclusive digital growth.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good initiative, but I am concerned about interference management. With so many satellites planned (Starlink, OneWeb, etc.), overlapping spectrum could cause issues for our mobile networks. TRAI needs to ensure that D2D doesn't degrade existing 4G/5G services in urban areas. "Acche din" for satellite, but what about terrestrial users?
As someone who works in telecom, this is a sensible approach. The 5-year initial license term with extension provision is pragmatic—gives companies certainty to invest while allowing TRAI to adjust based on tech evolution. The percentage-of-revenue spectrum charge is also fairer than fixed fees. India is leapfrogging in space-based connectivity. 🇮🇳
Great for disaster management! During floods in Kerala or cyclones in Odisha, terrestrial towers often go down. If satellite D2D can work on normal phones, that would be a game-changer for emergency communication. But TRAI must mandate inter-operability so that all service providers can use the network during crises. 👏
While I applaud the intent, I'm sceptical about affordability. Satellite spectrum auctions in other countries have led to high costs passed to consumers. TRAI's 'minimum annual charge' model sounds better, but will it really keep services cheap for rural India? Or will it end up like some 5G plans—₹999 for 1GB? Hope I'm wrong.
This is a masterstroke for IoT and maritime sectors. Imagine tracking fishing boats from Kerala in real-time, or precision agriculture in Punjab using satellite-connected sensors
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