No mobile tower, no problem? Indian mobile users could eventually make calls and access communication services through satellites in areas beyond the reach of conventional telecom networks.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has proposed a new regulatory framework that would allow telecom operators to deliver satellite connectivity directly to compatible mobile phones, potentially transforming mobile coverage across remote and underserved regions.
The recommendations, submitted to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), could also create new business opportunities for satellite operators and telecom companies by allowing them to share satellite infrastructure without building separate networks.
However, the proposals require government approval before implementation.
Trai has recommended introducing a new authorisation category called Satellite Communication Network Provider (SCN Provider).
Under this framework, companies would be permitted to establish, operate and maintain satellite communication networks and lease their capacity to licensed telecom and satellite service providers.
The objective is to integrate satellite communication into India's existing telecom ecosystem, allowing operators to expand their coverage without investing heavily in satellite infrastructure.
Key proposals include:
Satellite network providers can offer network capacity to multiple licensed telecom operators.
Telecom companies can use shared satellite infrastructure to extend coverage to remote areas.
SCN Providers cannot sell telecom services directly to consumers under this authorisation.
The proposed authorisation will remain valid for 20 years, with an option for renewal for another 20 years.
Shared infrastructure could help reduce duplication of investment and improve network utilisation.
For example, a satellite company such as Starlink could potentially supply capacity to Bharti Airtel, enabling the telecom operator to serve subscribers in regions with limited terrestrial coverage. This is an illustrative arrangement, not an announced partnership under the proposed framework.
One of the most significant recommendations concerns direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity, which would allow compatible smartphones to communicate directly with satellites.
Trai has proposed two approaches.
1. Using dedicated satellite spectrum
The first approach would use spectrum assigned to Mobile Satellite Services (MSS), particularly the L-band and S-band.
This could enable smartphones equipped with suitable technology to connect directly to satellites without depending on conventional mobile towers.
Trai has also recommended encouraging smartphone manufacturers to incorporate satellite-compatible technology into future devices.
2. Using existing mobile spectrum
The second approach would allow satellite networks to use spectrum already assigned to telecom operators for terrestrial mobile services.
Under this arrangement, customers could potentially remain connected through a satellite network when travelling through mountainous regions, forests or other areas without tower coverage.
However, telecom operators would need to consent to the use of their spectrum, and the relevant frequency channel must be available across all 22 licensed service areas.
If implemented, the framework could have significant implications for mobile connectivity, particularly in regions where building conventional telecom towers is difficult or commercially unattractive.
For states such as Kerala, satellite connectivity could eventually improve communication options in the Western Ghats, forest regions, mountainous areas and other locations with unreliable mobile coverage.
It could also provide an additional communication channel during emergencies and natural disasters when terrestrial infrastructure is damaged or unavailable.
However, the availability of satellite-enabled calling, messaging or data services would depend on technological compatibility, operator arrangements, regulatory approvals and actual network deployment.
Trai's recommendations have been forwarded to the DoT for consideration. The government will need to examine and approve the proposed framework before the new authorisation category and D2D satellite services can be introduced.
For now, the recommendations represent a potential shift in India's telecom policy rather than an immediate rollout of satellite connectivity for all smartphones.
If approved and commercially deployed, the framework could allow satellite companies and mobile operators to work together to close long-standing connectivity gaps across the country.