TRAI releases recommendations on terms and conditions for satellite communication spectrum
TRAI released recommendations on 9 May 2025 on 'Terms and Conditions for the Assignment of Spectrum for Certain Satellite-Based Commercial Communication Services', proposing assignment for up to five years, extendable by up to two years.
Summary
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released its recommendations on 'Terms and Conditions for the Assignment of Spectrum for Certain Satellite-Based Commercial Communication Services' on 9 May 2025, on a DoT reference dated 11 July 2024. For NGSO-based Fixed Satellite Services, Ku, Ka and Q/V bands should be considered. For GSO/NGSO-based Mobile Satellite Services, L and S bands for user links and C, Ku, Ka and Q/V bands for feeder links. Spectrum should be assigned for up to five years, extendable by up to two, within 30 days of application. Satellite earth station gateways should be commissioned within 12 months of permission.
Key facts
- Released
- 9 May 2025
- DoT reference
- 11 July 2024
- NGSO FSS bands
- Ku, Ka, Q/V
- MSS user links
- L and S bands
- Assignment period
- Up to 5 years, extendable up to 2 years
- Assignment timeline
- Within 30 days of application
- Gateways
- Commission within 12 months
Practice MCQs 2 questions
For what initial period did TRAI recommend that spectrum be assigned for NGSO-based FSS and GSO/NGSO-based MSS?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Up to 5 years
TRAI recommended assignment for up to five years, which the Government may extend by up to two years.
Consider the following statements about TRAI's satellite spectrum recommendations of 9 May 2025: 1. Ku and Ka bands should be considered for user links of Mobile Satellite Services. 2. Satellite earth station gateways should be commissioned within 12 months of permission. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — 2 only
Only 2 is correct. For MSS user links, TRAI recommended L and S bands; C, Ku, Ka and Q/V are for feeder links.