TRAI Recommendations for Satellite Communication Network Authorization and Spectrum Allocation

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has announced its recommendations regarding the framework for Satellite Communication Network provider authorization and the allocation of spectrum to satellite communication network providers. According to a report from PIB Delhi, these recommendations aim to develop a robust and competitive satellite communication ecosystem in India.

The process commenced when the DoT informed TRAI on 03.07.2025 that the government proposes to introduce Satellite Communication Network (SCN) authorization under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act 2023. The DoT requested TRAI to provide the terms and conditions for SCN authorization, including the allocation of spectrum for both feeder links and user links.

In this context, TRAI issued a consultation paper on 08.04.2026 on the 'Framework for Satellite Communication Network Authorization and Allocation of Spectrum to Satellite Communication Network Providers'. In response to this paper, comments from 31 stakeholders and counter-comments from 12 stakeholders were received, which were uploaded to the TRAI website. Subsequently, an Open House Discussion (OHD) was held via virtual mode on 02.07.2026. Following the analysis of stakeholder comments, TRAI has prepared its final recommendations.

Key points of TRAI's recommendations include Unified Service Authorization, Access Service Authorization, Internet Service Authorization, and Long Distance Service Authorization under the Telecommunications (Authorization for Principal Telecom Services) Rules, 2026. Additionally, authorization for Access Service, Internet Service, NLD Service, Commercial VSAT CUG Service, and GMPCS Service under the Unified License has been recommended.

Furthermore, it has been mentioned to grant licenses under a 'Sui-Generis' category for the provision and operation of satellite-based services using gateways installed in India. However, such an entity must meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining SCN provider authorization and ensure compliance with technical, operating, roll-out, and security conditions.

According to the details regarding service types and spectrum, for FSS, GSO satellites include C band, Ku band, Ka band, and Q/V band, while NGSO includes Ku band, Ka band, and Q/V band. For MSS, L band and S band will be for user links in GSO, and C band, Ku band, Ka band, and Q/V band will be for feeder links.

The recommendations provide for offering services to partnering entities through Satellite Communication Network as a Service (SCNaaS), where the right to use the spectrum will remain with the partnering entity. IMT-based D2D services will be permitted only if one or more entities authorized to provide access services, possessing the relevant IMT frequency channels in all 22 licensed service areas of the country, agree to allow the SCN provider to use their channels.

Financial conditions for SCN provider authorization have been set at an entry fee of ₹37,50,000, an initial guarantee of ₹45,00,000, minimum equity of ₹60,00,000, minimum net worth of ₹60,00,000, and an application processing fee of ₹10,000.

TRAI believes that this framework will enable the efficient use of satellite network infrastructure and spectrum through SCNaaS. This will facilitate innovative services such as D2D connectivity using MSS and IMT spectrum and help in the expansion of satellite-based connectivity across the country. These recommendations are available on the TRAI website.