TRAI proposes national authorisation for satellite network providers

India's telecom regulator has proposed a national authorisation for satellite communication network providers, with a maximum term of 20 years and renewal for up to another 20 years. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released the recommendations on 5 November.

Under TRAI's proposal, authorised entities could supply satellite networks as a service to eligible service providers, but could not sell telecommunications services directly to users. The recommended authorisation would sit under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

The proposed networks could carry fixed and mobile satellite services, including direct-to-device connections using mobile-satellite spectrum or spectrum used for terrestrial mobile telecommunications. TRAI recommends letting network providers obtain satellite spectrum from the government or use spectrum assigned to partner service providers.

TRAI also recommends administrative assignment of fixed-satellite spectrum for feeder links. For user-link spectrum assigned administratively, providers would have to demonstrate that their partners' intended service falls within the Telecommunications Act's First Schedule.

TelecomLead's report on the recommendations lists a proposed authorisation fee of 8% of adjusted gross revenue, without a minimum authorisation fee. It also reports a proposed ₹37.50 lakh entry fee and minimum equity and net worth of ₹60 lakh each.

These are regulatory recommendations, rather than government-approved rules. TelecomLead reports that implementation depends on decisions by the Department of Telecommunications. The proposed term and direct-to-device provisions therefore do not constitute an authorisation for a provider to begin service.