India's regulator proposes framework for direct satellite links to phones
India's telecom regulator has proposed rules letting smartphones connect straight to satellites, with the final decision up to the DoT, Moody's reports.
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what happened
India's telecom regulator, Trai, has proposed a framework that would let smartphones connect directly to satellites, extending coverage to areas beyond mobile networks. According to Moody's, the recommendations could open new revenue streams for telecom operators, internet providers and satellite firms such as Nelco, Starlink, Amazon Leo and Eutelsat OneWeb.
Under the plan, satellite companies would build and run the networks and sell capacity to operators, which would then offer services to consumers. Trai proposes a 20-year authorisation, an 8% fee on adjusted gross revenue and an entry fee of Rs.37.5 lakh. Spectrum would be assigned administratively for up to five years. The recommendations have gone to the Department of Telecommunications, which will make the final decision.
why it matters
For investors, the key signal is that India is preparing rules for satellite broadband and direct-to-device links, which could create a new competitive market for telecom operators. These are only recommendations, and no timeline for adoption has been given. Satellite providers are still waiting for security clearances and spectrum before launching fixed broadband services.
market impact
Indian telecom operators: possible new satellite revenue, but no final decision yet
tags
instruments
on polymarket
sources
- Trai proposes framework for satellite-to-phone services — Moody's, 5 November 2026 at 20:03 UTC
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