TRAI

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has taken a major leap forward in shaping India’s digital future by releasing its much-anticipated recommendations on satellite spectrum. These guidelines, titled “Terms and Conditions for the Assignment of Spectrum for Certain Satellite-Based Commercial Communication Services,” pave the way for the rollout of high-speed satellite-based internet and mobile services across the country.

Released in response to a request from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in July 2024, the recommendations address vital issues related to the assignment and pricing of spectrum for Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) and Geostationary Orbit (GSO) satellite systems. These systems offer critical services such as voice, data, mobile, and internet connectivity. TRAI’s primary goal is to ensure a level playing field between satellite and terrestrial service providers, in line with the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

The recommendations result from a robust consultation process. TRAI published a consultation paper in September 2024, receiving responses from 30 stakeholders and 12 counter-comments. An open house discussion further informed the final set of guidelines.

Key Highlights of TRAI’s Satellite Spectrum Recommendations:

Spectrum Bands: TRAI recommends using Ku, Ka, and Q/V bands for NGSO-based Fixed Satellite Services (FSS), and L and S bands for user links in Mobile Satellite Services (MSS), with feeder links in C, Ku, Ka, and Q/V bands.
Assignment Duration: Spectrum will initially be assigned for five years, with a potential two-year extension based on market conditions.
Pricing and Validity: Spectrum pricing will remain fixed for five years from the date of notification, extendable by two more years. New terms will apply to all players, including current license holders, after this period.
Interference Management: Interference control will follow International Telecommunication Union Radio Regulations (ITU-RR) to maintain global standards.
Spectrum Sharing: Entities operating in shared bands must coordinate in good faith. TRAI suggests the Telecom Engineering Centre (TEC) develop a framework for sharing, including conditions for Equivalent Power Flux Density (EPFD) if needed.
Earth Station Gateways: Authorized operators must coordinate for setting up satellite gateways. TEC may also study coordination distances to avoid signal clashes.
Set up satellite gateways in remote or uninhabited IMT band regions on a case-by-case basis to ensure efficient spectrum use.
Assign spectrum within 30 days of in-principle approval to avoid bureaucratic delays.

Spectrum Charges Proposed:

GSO-based FSS and MSS: 4% of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) with a minimum ₹3,500/MHz annually.
NGSO-based FSS: 4% of AGR + ₹500/subscriber/year in urban areas (exempt for rural), with a minimum of ₹3,500/MHz annually.

Payment Terms:

AGR-based charges are due quarterly in advance, while minimum spectrum charges are annually pre-paid. NGSO urban subscriber charges are also paid quarterly.

TRAI also recommends a surrender option, allowing spectrum to be returned before expiry. To promote rural connectivity, TRAI suggests government subsidies for NGSO-based FSS terminals in unserved areas.

These recommendations mark a pivotal moment in India’s telecom journey. By ensuring regulatory clarity, pricing transparency, and equal opportunities for all players, TRAI is laying the foundation for a future-ready, satellite-powered communication network. The ball now moves to the DoT, which will finalize the satellite spectrum policy based on these inputs.