TRAI Charts Satcom Path for Direct-to-Device

Telecom regulator expects new satellite communication framework to ensure regulatory certainty and accelerate seamless direct-to-device deployment.

Addressing the Space Policy Conference 2026 in New Delhi on Wednesday, July 22, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti announced that the ongoing consultations on satellite communication network (SCN) authorisation and direct-to-device (D2D) services are near finalization. According to official regulatory statements, the initiative aims to establish comprehensive regulatory certainty and facilitate the frictionless deployment of advanced satellite networks across the country.

The consultation process has carefully evaluated critical operational aspects, including mobile satellite service (MSS) spectrum integration, IMT frequency utilization, interference management, and cross-border coordination across all licensed service areas, positioning India for rapid digital transformation.

Streamlining Satellite Authorisation and Spectrum Assignment

According to official TRAI disclosures, the recently concluded consultation framework addresses critical parameters for satellite-based commercial communications. The regulatory roadmap proposes administrative spectrum assignment for non-geostationary fixed satellite services (NGSO-FSS) and geostationary or non-geostationary mobile satellite services (MSS) for an initial duration of five years, with provisions for extensions up to two years.

Furthermore, TRAI has recommended transparent pricing models through spectrum usage charges calculated as a percentage of service revenue, subject to minimum annual charges. This structure is designed to foster private sector innovation, encourage infrastructure investments, and maintain affordable consumer pricing as India's space economy scales toward projected targets exceeding USD 45 billion by 2030.

Impact on Telecom Operators, Consumers, and Strategic Sectors

For telecom operators, technology enterprises, and consumers, the forthcoming satellite framework provides a predictable operating environment that bridges terrestrial coverage gaps. Satellite communications remain indispensable for delivering resilient connectivity to remote, rural, and geographically challenging terrains where traditional mobile towers are impractical.

In addition to consumer broadband and D2D connectivity, robust satellite networks reinforce critical infrastructure during natural disasters and support strategic verticals such as maritime communication, aviation navigation, and the rapidly expanding Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem.

Why It Matters

Establishing a transparent, agile regulatory framework for satellite communications enables India to harness non-terrestrial networks effectively. By encouraging private investments and ensuring interference-free spectrum sharing, the policy bridges the digital divide and safeguards emergency communication infrastructure.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Regulator: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), led by Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti.

• Key Focus: Satellite Communication Network (SCN) authorisation and direct-to-device (D2D) service deployment.

• Spectrum Assignment: Proposed administrative assignment for NGSO-FSS and MSS for an initial 5-year term.

• Market Projections: India's space economy is projected to expand past USD 45 billion by 2030.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of TRAI's satellite communication framework? The framework is designed to provide regulatory certainty, streamline spectrum assignment, and facilitate the seamless commercial deployment of satellite networks and D2D services.

How long is the proposed spectrum assignment for satellite services? TRAI has recommended assigning spectrum for NGSO-FSS and MSS for an initial period of five years, with provisions for extension up to two years.

Why are satellite communications critical for India? Satellite networks complement terrestrial infrastructure by providing reliable connectivity to remote rural areas, supporting disaster management, and enabling maritime and IoT applications.

Source: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), Department of Telecommunications (DoT), ET Telecom, ANI News