{
  "id": 18467516,
  "title": "TRAI Backs Direct-To-Device Satellite Connectivity, Proposes New Authorisation Framework",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/06/trai-backs-direct-to-device-satellite-connectivity-proposes-new",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-11-06T07:37:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Inc42",
    "slug": "inc42",
    "url": "https://inc42.com/buzz/trai-backs-direct-to-device-satellite-connectivity-proposes-new-authorisation-framework/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has endorsed plans to introduce direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity in India, accompanied by a new authorisation framework. This proposal enables smartphones to communicate directly with satellites, potentially providing coverage to regions lacking conventional mobile connectivity. The framework, known as the Satellite Communication Network (SCN) Provider Authorisation, allows companies to establish and manage satellite networks, subsequently selling capacity to telecom operators. However, this authorisation does not permit direct consumer service provision. TRAI's recommendations necessitate government approval and do not immediately authorize commercial D2D services. For operators, this framework provides an avenue to gain access to satellite infrastructure via partnerships, while maintaining control over customer relationships. On the flip side, satellite communication companies would have a distinct pathway to sell network capacity to telecom operators, without necessitating a consumer-facing service under the same authorisation. This arrangement would facilitate collaborations between satellite infrastructure providers and telecom operators aiming to broaden their coverage. The SCN authorisation would remain effective for up to 20 years, with the option to renew for an additional 20 years. TRAI has suggested two routes for D2D connectivity—either utilizing spectrum designated for mobile satellite services or leveraging spectrum currently allocated to terrestrial mobile operators. In the first scenario, TRAI suggests encouraging handset manufacturers to integrate support for the pertinent satellite bands in future smartphones sold in India. In the second scenario, telecom operators can collaborate with satellite network providers to employ their existing mobile spectrum for satellite connectivity. However, operators participating in this partnership must collectively hold the relevant frequency channel across all 22 licensed service areas and agree to its utilization. TRAI has endorsed permitting this arrangement without awaiting the World Radiocommunication Conference 2027. Additionally, TRAI has proposed an authorisation fee equivalent to 8% of adjusted gross revenue (AGR), sans a minimum authorisation fee. Satellite network providers can acquire spectrum directly from the government or utilize spectrum held by qualifying partner operators. In a partnership, spectrum rights would remain with the operator. Government-allocated satellite spectrum would be valid for up to five years, with a potential extension of up to two years and an annual minimum spectrum charge of ₹3,500 per MHz. Should D2D services employ a telecom operator's current mobile spectrum, TRAI has proposed no additional spectrum charges, with existing spectrum costs continuing as is. These proposals emerge as Starlink, Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb, and Reliance Jio endeavor to penetrate India's satellite connectivity market.",
  "summary": "The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended allowing direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity and creating a separate authorisation for…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}