In a move to expand digital access, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has begun evaluating the rollout of direct satellite-to-mobile communication services to enable connectivity in remote and underserved regions.
In a consultation paper released on Wednesday, TRAI sought stakeholder views on enabling Direct-to-Device (D2D) services, which would allow satellites to connect directly with standard mobile phones.
The regulator is examining whether such services should use spectrum allocated for mobile satellite services (MSS) or frequencies used for terrestrial mobile networks like 4G and 5G. The move could bring satellite communication services on par with traditional telecom providers.
TRAI noted that several rural and remote areas in India remain unserved or underserved. It stated that D2D services using either MSS spectrum or IMT spectrum could help enable widespread connectivity across the country.
The paper clarified that MSS typically refers to satellite services delivered through specialised satellite phones. In contrast, D2D via MSS spectrum would extend such services to regular smartphones. Services using fixed terminals like VSAT fall under fixed satellite services (FSS), while mobile-based services are categorised under MSS.
The technical feasibility of using mobile spectrum for satellite-based communication is yet to be finalised at the upcoming World Radiocommunication Conference 2027, organised by the International Telecommunication Union. The conference is scheduled for October-November next year in China.
TRAI also highlighted that some countries have already allowed D2D services using IMT spectrum and suggested that India could consider early adoption given its potential benefits.
Currently, spectrum for mobile services is allocated through auctions, while satellite spectrum can be assigned administratively under the Telecommunications Act 2023.
The regulator has asked whether D2D services using IMT spectrum should be permitted immediately or after global decisions at WRC-2027. It also emphasised the need to clearly define usage before assigning spectrum to satellite communication network operators.
Stakeholders can submit comments on the consultation paper by May 6, with counter-comments due by May 20.
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