TRAI frames new authorisation for satellite communication networks
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has recommended a new authorisation for firms that offer satellite networks as a service to other telecom providers — not directly to retail users. The plan sits under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. Read it to revise TRAI, satellite spectrum and Direct-to-Device services.
- Law hook
- Section 3(1)(b), Telecommunications Act, 2023
- Term
- Up to 20 years, renewable
- Service model
- SCNaaS to eligible providers
- Released
- 5 November 2026
Satellite network authorisation: what happened?
India wants more satellite internet and phone links. TRAI has now drawn the licence shape for firms that will run those networks for others.
- TRAI recommended a Satellite Communication Network Provider authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
- Authorised firms may offer Satellite Communication Network as a Service (SCNaaS) to eligible telecom providers, not direct services to retail users.
- The authorisation covers the whole country for up to 20 years, renewable for up to another 20.
- It covers Fixed Satellite Service, Mobile Satellite Service and Direct-to-Device modes.
- Providers may seek satellite spectrum from the Centre and/or use spectrum assigned to partner service providers.
Why a separate network authorisation?
Until now, satellite services were often tied to one company owning both the network and the retail licence. An unbundled model lets one firm run the satellite network and another sell the service to customers.
The Department of Telecommunications asked TRAI to design terms, including spectrum for feeder links (ground to satellite) and user links (satellite to phone or dish).
TRAI issued a consultation paper in April 2026, held an open-house in July, and released final recommendations on 5 November 2026.
Satellite service words
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| SCNaaS | Satellite network sold as a service to other providers |
| FSS | Fixed Satellite Service (dishes, backhaul) |
| MSS | Mobile Satellite Service (phones, moving users) |
| D2D | Direct-to-Device via satellite |
Which laws and Articles apply?
- Telecommunications Act, 2023: Section 3(1)(b) for authorisations.
- TRAI Act, 1997: TRAI recommends telecom policy terms.
- National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP): how radio bands are used.
- ITU Radio Regulations: global spectrum rules, including for D2D.
Why does the satellite network authorisation matter?
| Angle | What to note |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | Helps remote and disaster areas get links. |
| Competition | Shared networks lower cost for new players. |
| Spectrum | Clear rules for feeder and user links. |
| Innovation | Opens Direct-to-Device on phones. |
What are the problems with the satellite network authorisation?
- Retail users still depend on a second licensed provider.
- Spectrum pricing and sharing can stay complex.
- Interference risks need tight technical limits.
- Handsets may take years to support new bands.
What should be done next on the satellite network authorisation?
- DoT to accept and notify the authorisation.
- Set clear spectrum prices and timelines.
- Encourage phone makers to support MSS bands.
- Protect existing services from harmful interference.
What can Prelims ask on the satellite network authorisation?
Prelims probability: Medium: new Telecommunications Act, 2023 authorisation and satellite spectrum — good Science & Tech Prelims potential.
- Telecommunications Act, 2023: Section 3(1)(b).
- SCN authorisation: wholesale, not retail.
- Term: up to 20 years.
- Covers FSS, MSS and D2D.
- Recommendations released 5 November 2026.
How to write about the satellite network authorisation in Mains
Practice question (15 marks, 250 words): Unbundling satellite networks can expand connectivity. Examine TRAI’s proposed Satellite Communication Network Provider authorisation.
- Intro: TRAI recommendations.
- Why SCNaaS.
- Scope and spectrum.
- Gains and risks.
- Conclusion: shared skies, clearer rules.
Ready lines for your answer
- A shared satellite network can connect places fibre cannot.
- Clear authorisation turns space capacity into public service.
Quotable data pointConsultation in April 2026; final recommendations on 5 November 2026.
Photo: Vsatinet, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Exam angle
Prelims: TRAI, Telecommunications Act 2023, FSS/MSS. · Mains GS-III: space and telecom.
Practice MCQs
Original practice questions (not PYQs).
Consider the following statements:
1. TRAI recommended a Satellite Communication Network Provider authorisation under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
2. SCN provider entities would mainly sell network-as-a-service to eligible providers, not direct retail user services.
3. The proposed authorisation is limited to a single metro city only.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Answer (a) & explanation
Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The authorisation is proposed for the national area.
Satellites used for telecommunication relay are typically kept in which kind of orbit?
Answer (b) & explanation
UPSC Prelims 2011 tested geostationary telecom relay satellites.
Questions students ask about this
What did TRAI recommend?
A new Satellite Communication Network Provider authorisation under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
Can these firms sell directly to phone users?
No. They offer the network as a service to eligible telecom providers.
How long is the authorisation?
Up to 20 years, renewable for up to another 20.
When were the recommendations released?
On 5 November 2026.