TRAI proposes satellite network authorisation and administrative spectrum assignment

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India released recommendations on 5 November 2026 for authorising satellite communication network providers and assigning spectrum to them. It proposes a wholesale model: the authorised network operator would provide satellite capacity to eligible service providers, which would serve customers under their own permissions. The network authorisation would apply across India and could run for up to 20 years. The proposed fee is 8% of adjusted gross revenue.

The recommendations also describe ways to connect compatible phones directly to satellites. One would use frequencies meant for mobile satellite services. Another would use terrestrial frequencies already assigned to mobile operators, subject to conditions on interference. The regulator proposes administrative assignment of eligible satellite spectrum for up to five years, with a possible extension of up to two years. The government still has to decide whether to adopt these proposals.

Facts to remember

• Recommendations released on 5 November 2026 by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India.
• Proposed nationwide network authorisation: up to 20 years; authorisation fee: 8% of adjusted gross revenue.
• Proposed administrative spectrum assignment: up to five years, with a possible extension of up to two years.
• The proposed network authorisation is under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

Background

The Telecommunications Act, 2023, treats network authorisation and spectrum assignment as separate steps. Section 3 addresses permission to establish, operate, maintain or expand a telecommunications network. Section 4 deals with the assignment of spectrum, which is the allocation of radio frequencies for use. The distinction explains why the proposed network authorisation and the proposed assignment of frequencies have different time limits.

Why it matters for exams

For CLAT Science and UGC-NET Law, revise satellite connectivity and telecommunications regulation, especially the difference between permission to operate a network and permission to use frequencies.