The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended a separate authorisation for satellite network providers and proposed permitting direct-to-device services using satellite and terrestrial mobile spectrum.

The proposals can enable compatible smartphones to connect directly to satellites, potentially extending connectivity to areas without conventional mobile coverage.

Under the proposed Satellite Communication Network (SCN) Provider Authorisation, companies can build and operate satellite networks and sell capacity to eligible telecom service providers. They cannot serve end users directly under this authorisation.

The recommendations require government approval and do not immediately permit commercial D2D services.

The framework would give telecom operators a way to access satellite infrastructure through partnerships, while continuing to manage their customer relationships.

For satcom companies, it would create a separate route to sell network capacity to telecom operators, without requiring them to build a consumer-facing service under the same authorisation.

In effect, one company can operate the underlying satellite network while another sells connectivity to customers. This will support partnerships between satellite infrastructure providers and telecom operators seeking to extend their coverage.

However, the SCN authorisation alone would not allow a satellite company to sell mobile or broadband services directly to consumers. It would require the relevant service licence or authorisation.

The proposed nationwide authorisation would remain valid for up to 20 years, with renewal permitted for another period of up to 20 years.

TRAI has proposed two routes for D2D connectivity – using spectrum earmarked for mobile satellite services or using spectrum already assigned to terrestrial mobile operators.

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