- Why in news
- On 8 April 2026, TRAI released a consultation paper on a framework for Satellite Communication Network authorisation and spectrum assignment. Comments are due by 6 May 2026 and counter-comments by 20 May 2026.
- What it is
- The Telecommunications Act, 2023 replaced the older telegraph and wireless laws and lets the Centre grant authorisations for telecom services and networks. Satellite communication network (SCN) authorisation is a proposed new category under it. TRAI, the sector regulator, gives recommendations on terms and conditions, and the government (DoT) takes the final decision.
- Legal provision
- DoT proposes the SCN authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
- Who asked, and for what
- DoT asked TRAI for terms and conditions of the authorisation, including spectrum assignment for both feeder links and user links.
- TRAI's role
- TRAI is a statutory regulator set up under the TRAI Act, 1997. Its recommendations on licensing terms are advisory to the government.
Don’t confuse with Feeder link vs user link: The feeder link connects the satellite to the gateway earth station. The user link connects the satellite to end-user terminals.
Don’t confuse with TRAI vs DoT: TRAI recommends terms and conditions. DoT, for the Centre, grants authorisations and assigns spectrum.
Laws, judgments and statutory bodies: 30 Prelims questions since 2013 (what the law says, who chairs, legal basis). In Mains, 44 news-triggered questions, most in GS2, asking for provisions and challenges.
Why it matters
- A clear authorisation framework can speed up satellite broadband, especially in remote and rural areas.
Problems
- Spectrum sharing between satellite and terrestrial operators, and pricing of spectrum, are contested.
Way forward
- Finalise transparent, light-touch terms after stakeholder consultation, with safeguards for security and fair competition.
Put in your answer
Telecommunications Act, 2023: The Act enables authorisations under Section 3(1)(b); SCN authorisation is proposed under it.
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UPSC’s own questions that come close to this issue, from our Prelims and Mains banks.
No practice question for this one; the card may still help an answer. Why: Consultation on a satcom authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. Useful regulatory background, but only a consultation stage.
Worth revising until Prelims 2027: most news questions come within two years of the event.