Satellite Communication (Satcom) Regulation Framework

21 Jul 2025 GS 2 Governance
Satellite Communication (Satcom) Regulation Framework Click to view full image

Context:

The Digital Communications Commission (DCC), the apex decision-making body in telecom, will meet on July 29, 2025, to finalise satellite communication (satcom) regulations and act on the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recommendations.

Key Agenda:

  • Finalisation of spectrum pricing and distribution to licensed satellite operators.

  • Discussion on the way forward for commercial satellite launches in India.

Operators Involved:

  • Starlink (Elon Musk) – Received final authorisation from IN-SPACe.

  • Eutelsat OneWeb – Backed by Bharti Group.

  • Jio-SES – Reliance Jio’s satellite JV.

  • Globalstar – Another major player entering the Indian satcom space.

TRAI Recommendations (May 2025):

  • Spectrum Allocation:

    • To be done administratively on a first-come, first-served basis.

    • Validity: 5 years + 2-year possible extension.

  • Spectrum Charges:

    • 4% of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR).

    • Minimum ₹3,500 per MHz annually.

  • Key Frequency Bands:

    • Ku, Ka, Q/V bands – for broadband/data.

    • L, S, C bands – for mobile satellite services.

Industry Opposition:

  • COAI (Cellular Operators Association of India) objected:

    • Claims lack of transparency and level playing field between satellite and terrestrial service providers.

    • Criticised insufficient stakeholder consultation and data-based justification in TRAI’s proposals.

Significance :

  • Highlights the evolving regulatory ecosystem for next-gen connectivity in India.

  • Reflects India’s steps towards satellite internet, digital inclusion, and space-commercialisation.

  • Examines balance between regulatory fairness and technological innovation.

    

  • New Satcom Guidelines (2025):

    ·     Local Manufacturing & Indigenisation:

    o  5-year phased manufacturing plan mandatory.

    o  20% of ground equipment must be indigenously made by Year 5.

    ·     Data Localisation & Monitoring:

    o  No routing of user traffic via foreign gateways/PoPs.

    o  All user data, DNS, and control systems to be hosted in India.

    o  Mandatory support for lawful interception and data security.

    ·     NavIC Compliance:

    o  User terminals must support NavIC on a best-effort basis.

    o  Full compliance deadline: 2029.

    ·     National Security Measures:

    o  Must support service restrictions during emergencies.

    o  Create monitoring zones near borders and coastal EEZs.

    o  Real-time reporting of foreign/unregistered user terminals.

    ·     Service-Specific Security Clearance:

                       Separate clearances required for voice and data services.

  • Department of Telecommunications (DoT) – Issues operational guidelines and approvals.
  • Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) – Finalises policy framework including spectrum allocation and pricing.


← Back to list