Overview
- TRAI issued formal recommendations on Nov. 5 creating a new Satellite Communication Network (SCN) provider authorisation and a Satellite Communication Network‑as‑a‑Service model with an initial licence term of up to 20 years and a renewal option.
- The regulator proposes two direct‑to‑device (D2D) options: MSS‑based D2D using L‑ and S‑bands and IMT‑based D2D that would reuse mobile bands (600/700/800/900/1800/2100 MHz) on a non‑interference basis.
- Under TRAI’s design, SCN providers may supply satellite capacity and infrastructure to licensed telcos and eligible service providers but will be barred from selling consumer services directly.
- Implementation depends on the central government accepting TRAI’s recommendations, security clearances for operators such as Eutelsat OneWeb, Reliance Jio and Starlink, and handset makers adding MSS‑band modules to new phones.
- If adopted, the rules could expand connectivity in remote areas and create new partnerships and revenue for telcos and satellite firms, but service launches will hinge on spectrum assignment, interference coordination and device availability.