Summary:
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is assessing the use of mobile satellite service spectrum for Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity, which is already operational in several countries, with companies like Starlink expanding globally. The move could significantly improve network access in India’s rural and remote areas, where traditional infrastructure is difficult to deploy. TRAI highlighted that both MSS- and IMT-based satellite D2D models could enable widespread connectivity, while also stressing the need for timely rollout strategies and well-designed policies to ensure fair competition as more players enter the market.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is currently evaluating whether Direct-to-Device (D2D) services should be delivered using spectrum allocated for mobile satellite services. Such D2D services are already available to users in several countries worldwide. Starlink is among the key companies working to expand this offering across multiple markets. It is therefore crucial for TRAI to determine an effective and timely strategy for introducing D2D services in India.
This initiative is expected to enhance connectivity in rural and remote regions of the country. Many areas in India still lack access to mobile networks, largely because building terrestrial infrastructure in these locations is challenging.
In a statement, TRAI noted, “In this context, the two variants of D2D service viz… D2D service via satellite by using MSS spectrum, and …D2D service via satellite by using IMT spectrum may potentially act as enablers of ubiquitous connectivity in the country, particularly in such rural and remote areas.”
In addition to Starlink, several other companies are likely to introduce D2D services in India. To maintain fair competition within the sector, it will be important to design well-considered policies.
