Overview
- The Department of Telecommunications made the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 effective on December 30, defining national spectrum use from 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz.
- NFAP-2025 identifies the 6425–7125 MHz range for International Mobile Telecommunications to boost mid-band capacity for 5G, 5G Advanced and future 6G.
- Ka, Q and V bands are allocated for high-throughput satellite broadband, with operations still contingent on processing TRAI recommendations, security vetting and requirements such as hosting international gateways in India.
- TRAI’s satellite spectrum pricing plan remains under consideration: 4% of adjusted gross revenue plus ₹500 per urban subscriber annually with exemptions for rural and remote users, a model the regulator reaffirmed after a DoT reconsideration request.
- The plan explicitly supports in-flight and maritime connectivity, while civil aviation rules and aircraft equipment installations are yet to be finalised; industry body COAI welcomed the roadmap and urged identification of 5925–6425 MHz for IMT as well.