TRAI Sets Out Financial Requirements for Satellite Network Providers

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released its recommendations on the authorisation and spectrum assignment framework for satellite communication network providers on November 5, 2026. It proposed introducing a separate Satellite Communication Network (SCN) Provider Authorisation under Section 3(1)(b) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. The proposed authorisation would cover the entire country and could be granted for a maximum period of 20 years.

TRAI has also outlined the proposed financial requirements for applicants seeking the authorisation. These include an authorisation fee of 8% of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR), with no minimum fee requirement. The proposed entry fee is ₹37,50,000, while the initial guarantee and minimum equity requirements are ₹45,00,000 and ₹60,00,000, respectively. The minimum net worth has also been proposed at ₹60,00,000, along with an application processing fee of ₹10,000.