TRAI Backs Direct-to-Device Satellite Links, New Authorisation

The split means one company can run the satellite network while another sells connectivity to customers. Telecom operators could extend their coverage through partnerships while keeping their customer relationships. The authorisation would be nationwide and valid for up to 20 years, renewable for another period of up to 20 years.

Two routes for D2D, and the fees

TRAI has outlined two D2D routes. One uses spectrum earmarked for mobile satellite services, and the regulator suggests the government encourage handset makers to support the relevant satellite bands in future smartphones sold in India. The other lets operators partner with satellite providers to use their existing terrestrial mobile spectrum. Participating operators would collectively need to hold the relevant frequency channel across all 22 licensed service areas and agree to its use.

TRAI says this should proceed without waiting for the World Radiocommunication Conference 2027. Satellite services would have to avoid interfering with existing authorised services and could not claim protection from interference caused by them.

The proposed authorisation fee is 8% of adjusted gross revenue (AGR), with no minimum fee. Government-assigned satellite spectrum would run for up to five years, extendable by up to two, with an annual minimum charge of ₹3,500 per MHz. In partnerships, spectrum rights stay with the operator, and no extra spectrum charges would apply beyond existing ones.

The recommendations arrive as Starlink, Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb and Reliance Jio work to tap India's satellite connectivity market.