The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) yesterday extended the submission date for consultation on ‘Framework for Satellite Communication Network Authorisation, and Assignment of Spectrum to

Satellite Communication Network Providers’, which was released earlier this year in April.

The broadcast and telecom regulator yesterday said that keeping in view the requests of industry associations and stakeholders for an

extension of time for submission of comments, the new date is May 13. Counter comments can be submitted by May 27.

The consultation paper proposes a comprehensive regulatory framework for authorisation of satellite communication networks and assignment of spectrum, amid rapid growth of non-terrestrial networks and emerging satellite-based broadband services.

In its consultation paper, TRAI has emphasised the need for a transparent, technology-neutral and forward-looking regulatory structure that can accommodate emerging satellite-based services, including low earth orbit (LEO) constellations, while ensuring efficient spectrum utilisation, fair competition, and adherence to security and public policy requirements.

The regulator has flagged several structural and operational issues for stakeholder inputs, spanning the entire lifecycle of satellite communication services—from entry conditions and operational obligations to spectrum access and compliance mechanisms.

A PTI report added that the consultation paper seeks views also on whether direct-to-device (D2D) service should be provided using spectrum meant for mobile satellite services or frequencies available for normal mobile services like 4G and 5G. The provisioning of D2D is expected to bring satellite communication services at par with mobile service providers.

A key area under consideration is the framework for grant of authorisation to satellite communication service providers. TRAI has sought views on parameters such as service areas, validity period of authorisation, eligibility criteria, minimum net worth requirements, and associated financial obligations including entry fees, processing charges, authorisation fees, bank guarantees, and security deposits.