India’s TRAI Clears Path for Starlink-Style Phone-to-Satellite

India’s Telecom Regulatory Authority on November 5 recommended a new Satellite Communication Network Provider authorisation lasting up to 20 years, with renewal for another 20, under the Telecommunications Act 2023.

TRAI’s Press Release No. 151/2026 sets out terms for SCN providers that would sell satellite communication network-as-a-service to licensed telecom operators. The authorised entities may not sell telecommunication services directly to end users.

The package permits Fixed Satellite Service, Mobile Satellite Service, Direct-to-Device links over MSS spectrum, and Direct-to-Device using partner IMT spectrum through those shared satellite networks. Access-service providers could buy SCNaaS from an SCN holder to offer MSS-based D2D. For IMT-based D2D, TRAI would allow the model on a non-interference, non-protection basis under ITU Radio Regulations Article 4.4 without waiting for WRC-27, if partner telcos holding the relevant IMT channels across India’s 22 licensed service areas agree.

After the government accepts the recommendations, TRAI says New Delhi should encourage smartphone makers to add the modules needed for applicable MSS bands in handsets sold in India.

On fees, SCN authorisation would cost 8% of Adjusted Gross Revenue, with no minimum authorisation fee. Entry fee would be Rs. 37.5 lakh, with separate bank guarantee, equity and net-worth floors listed in the press note. Spectrum charges would track the DoT framework already set from TRAI’s May 9, 2025 recommendations, plus an annual minimum of Rs. 3,500 per MHz when FSS or MSS spectrum is assigned by the Centre.

That wholesale-plus-D2D path is distinct from Friday’s ANI briefing that Starlink was the last of three satcom licensees to apply. The ANI story covered licence timing and security paperwork. It did not mention TRAI’s SCN framework. Together, the two files sketch how a player such as Starlink could still need a telco partner for phone-to-satellite service even after a network licence, once the Department of Telecommunications decides what to accept.

Recommendations are not law. DoT still has to adopt the package, assign spectrum and settle pricing before any SCN-based Direct-to-Device offer reaches Indian phones.