Telecom Regulator Considers Satellite-Based Mobile Services for Direct Communication

Trai Explores Options for Direct Satellite Transmission to Mobile Phones

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has initiated a consultation process to explore the possibility of allowing direct transmission of communication services from satellites to mobile phones. This move aims to support ubiquitous connectivity, particularly in rural and remote areas where some parts remain unserved or underserved.

Trai has floated a consultation paper on the framework for satellite communication network authorisation, seeking views from interested parties on whether Direct-to-Device (D2D) service should be provided using spectrum meant for mobile satellite services or frequencies available for normal mobile services like 4G and 5G.

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The provisioning of D2D is expected to bring satellite communication services at par with mobile service providers. Trai notes that the technical feasibility of providing direct satellite services using mobile service spectrum is pending for decision during the World Radiocommunication Conference 2027 of the International Telecommunication Union.

The consultation paper highlights that the spectrum available for IMT or mobile services are allocated through auctions, while the Telecommunications Act 2023 allows the government to allocate the spectrum of satellite services for various usage through an administrative process without any auction. Trai has asked whether D2D service via satellite by using IMT spectrum should be permitted at this stage itself, or should this matter be examined after considering the outcome of WRC-2027.

Trai has fixed May 6 as the last date for comment on the consultation paper and May 20 for counter comments. The regulator has taken a cautious approach, stating that before assigning FSS spectrum or MSS spectrum to SCN authorised entities, it would be necessary to ascertain the intended usage. The outcome of this consultation process is expected to have significant implications for the telecom sector in India.