The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) continues to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s digital communications landscape, especially as satellite-based services begin to take center stage in connectivity solutions. On 8th December 2025, TRAI announced that it has formally responded to the Department of Telecommunications’ (DoT) back-reference dated 12th November 2025 concerning TRAI’s earlier recommendations issued on 9th May 2025. These recommendations outlined the terms and conditions for assigning spectrum for various satellite-based commercial communication services.
Background: DoT’s Request for Recommendations
The journey leading to this latest development began with DoT’s communication dated 11th July 2024, in which it sought TRAI’s recommendations on spectrum assignment—including pricing—while ensuring a level playing field with terrestrial access services. The request specifically focused on two categories of satellite-based communications:
- NGSO (Non-Geostationary Orbit) based Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) providing internet and data communication services, with the requirement that TRAI also consider offerings by GSO (Geostationary Orbit) providers.
- GSO/NGSO-based Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) enabling voice, text, data, and internet services.
Recognizing the transformative impact satellite connectivity can have—particularly in remote, underserved, and geographically challenging regions—TRAI initiated a comprehensive consultation process. After engaging with stakeholders across the industry, TRAI submitted its detailed recommendations on 9th May 2025.
DoT’s Back-Reference and TRAI’s Reconsideration
Following its review of the recommendations, DoT issued a back-reference on 12th November 2025. This step, permitted under Section 11 of the TRAI Act, 1997, allows DoT to seek reconsideration on any part of TRAI’s advice. DoT requested clarifications and revisited certain aspects of TRAI’s recommendations on the assignment of spectrum for satellite-based commercial communication services.
Such back-references are standard in India’s telecom policy process and reflect the rigorous checks and balances essential for decisions with far-reaching implications on investments, innovation, and competition.
TRAI’s Response Submitted
After a detailed examination of the issues raised by DoT, TRAI has submitted its reconsidered response. This response addresses the queries, provides further technical and regulatory clarifications, and reinforces the authority’s position based on stakeholder feedback, global best practices, and India’s long-term connectivity goals.
In the interest of transparency, TRAI has also made its response publicly available on its official website.
Facilitating India’s Satellite Communications Future
This exchange between TRAI and DoT marks an important step in India’s broader efforts to establish a robust and future-ready regulatory framework for satellite communications. As international and domestic players prepare to roll out satellite broadband and mobility services, clarity in spectrum allocation, pricing, and licensing norms will be critical.
By ensuring a fair regulatory environment, TRAI aims to unlock the vast potential of satellite technology—supporting digital inclusion, improving network resilience, and enabling next-generation connectivity solutions.
For Clarifications
Stakeholders seeking additional information may contact:
Shri Akhilesh Kumar Trivedi, Advisor (Networks, Spectrum & Licensing), TRAI
Phone: +91-11-20907758