Law Updates

Subject

Summary: What These Migration Rules Do and From When Think of it like this. Imagine a school that used to give different kinds of hall passes - one for the library, one for the bathroom, one for the nurse's office. Now, the school wants just one simple pass that covers everything. That is exactly what India's government is doing with telecom licences. The Telecommunications (Terms and Conditions for Migration) Rules, 2026 came into force on 23 June 2026. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) made these rules under Section 56 of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. These rules create a clear path for telecom companies that hold old-style licences to move into a new, cleaner system called "authorisations." There are four types of new authorisations: Principal Telecommunication Services Miscellaneous Telecommunication Services Captive Telecommunication Services Telecommunication Network The old licences - such as UASL, NLD, ILD, ISP, VNO, PMRTS, and MNP licences - do not simply disappear. Their rights and responsibilities move forward into the new system. That is what "migration" means here. Why DoT Brought This Policy and What Was Required Need for Migration India has been using telecom rules from all the way back in 1885, under the old Telegraph Act. Over the past 25-plus years, the government handed out many different types of licences - each with its own rules, fees, and paperwork. Having so many different licence types caused big problems: Overlapping rules that created confusion Duplicate paperwork for companies and the government Complicated legal fights over spectrum, phone numbers, and network coverage The Telecommunications Act, 2023, changed the entire system. But the government still needed a proper, fair way to bring all the old license holders into the new system. That is why these Migration Rules exist. Objectives The goals are simple and sensible: Sort out the clutter by organizing everything under four categories of authorisation. Align existing licenses with the criteria and conditions in the new legislation. Ensure that no stone is left unturned – outstanding payments, penalties, and rollout requirements are not overlooked during migration. Establish clear deadlines for each company. How Migration Works and How Businesses Comply Who Is Eligible Any telecom company that still meets the eligibility conditions under the new authorisation rules can apply. This covers: Network Service Operator licensees - companies running phone networks, national or international long-distance services Virtual Network Operator licensees - companies that use another operator's network to provide services (like MVNOs) PMRTS and MNP licensees - companies offering radio trunking and mobile number portability Key Conditions for Applying Apply on the DoT Portal Website: The application must always be made online via the official website, together with all necessary paperwork and an application fee. Scope Should Match: The scope of the new authorization should match exactly that of the former license. It is impossible to reduce the scope of the license. Right Licence Type Must Be Chosen: Network service operators must migrate to network service operator authorisation terms. Virtual network operators must migrate to virtual network operator terms. PMRTS holders follow the Miscellaneous Services rules. Overlapping Authorisations Must Be Given Up: If a company holds a licence whose area is already fully covered by the new authorisation, that old licence must be surrendered as part of the process. Timelines Must Be Followed Situation Deadline Licence with a fixed expiry date Apply at least 12 months before expiry. Remaining validity less than 12 months on the notification date Apply within 90 days of notification OR before expiry, whichever comes first. Licence with no fixed expiry (perpetual) Apply at least 12 months before 5 years from the Act's appointed day. Late application Allowed only with a written request, payment of the late fee, and before the licence expiry. Letter of Intent and Approval Once DoT reviews an application, eligible companies receive a Letter of Intent (LoI). This letter spells out all the conditions, including: Which licences are being migrated An unconditional promise to pay any pending dues from before the migration Payment of the difference between the old entry fees already paid and the entry fee for the new authorisation Extra bank guarantee if the existing guarantee is lower than what the new authorisation requires A firm written promise to give up overlapping authorisations from the migration date Once the company accepts and fulfils all LoI conditions, DoT officially approves the migration. The approval document states: The effective migration dates The name of the service or network The service or network area The duration of the new authorisation Rights and Liabilities After Migration Migration does not erase the past. Old responsibilities stay firmly in place: Roll-out obligations:  if a company promised to set up towers or cover certain areas, that promise still stands after migration. Financial dues and penalties:  any unpaid amounts or fines from violations under the old licence remain payable. Spectrum and phone numbers:  spectrum held and telecom identifiers already allocated continue under the same original terms. Permissions and clearances:  coverage certificates, security approvals, remote access permissions, and foreign-national deployment approvals all stay valid, unless DoT changes them in the public interest. In simple terms, a company that migrates keeps running its business almost exactly as before - just under a more organised, modern licence framework. Impact on Different Types of Businesses Businesses That Benefit the Most Integrated telecom providers (access, NLD, ILD): Big telecom companies that currently hold multiple licences for different services gain the most. Instead of managing five or six different licences with different rules and fee structures, they get one clean authorisation that covers everything: less paperwork, fewer disputes, lower administrative costs. Virtual Network Operators (VNOs and MVNOs): Their status becomes clearer under the new rules. A single, unified authorisation may even make it easier to expand to new areas or offer new services without applying for a brand-new licence. PMRTS and MNP providers: These companies now get dedicated authorisation categories with defined validity periods and fees. This makes their business easier to understand for investors and banks, which can help them raise money. Operators with overlapping licences: Companies that hold redundant, overlapping licences can clean up their licence portfolios by surrendering the extras and migrating into one consolidated authorisation: less admin work, fewer filings, lower guarantee requirements. DoT and the overall regulatory system: It is far easier for the government to supervise a small set of clear, standardised authorisations than a large pile of different legacy licences. Enforcement becomes simpler and more consistent. Businesses That Are Most Impacted or Potentially Under Pressure Smaller licensees with limited compliance capacity: The Small ISPs, regional radio trunking operators, and niche VNOs may find the migration process harder to handle. The new authorisation conditions may demand higher bank guarantees, stricter reporting, and more detailed documentation. They may need to hire legal or financial advisors - an extra cost. Entities with unpaid dues or compliance issues: The unconditional undertaking to pay all pending dues is a serious requirement. Companies that have disputes over Adjusted Gross Revenue, licence fees, spectrum usage charges, or penalties cannot use migration as an escape route. Old problems follow them into the new system. Licensees with strategically held overlapping authorisations: Some companies held overlapping licences on purpose - as a backup or for business flexibility. The rules require surrendering these, which may mean redesigning corporate structures, network setups, or contracts. Overall, honest and compliant operators benefit. Companies that relied on regulatory ambiguity or multiple overlapping licences for flexibility lose that advantage. Impact on the Indian Economy and Sector Positive Structural Impact Regulatory simplification: Moving to a unified authorisation system reduces the administrative cost of running a telecom business in India. Cleaner rules mean easier investment decisions and a better environment for doing business. Better sector governance: With standardised authorisations, TRAI and DoT can design better rules on pricing, quality of service, and competition - improving the long-term health of the entire sector. Investor confidence: Explicit continuity of spectrum holdings, phone number allocations, and government permissions reduces legal risk for investors, banks, and companies involved in mergers and acquisitions. Facilitating new technologies: Once all operators are within the new framework, the government can more easily adapt the rules to accommodate 5G, 6G, satellite internet, IoT, and future technologies without creating a separate pile of new licence types. Short-Term Costs and Friction This migration will need some actual effort on the part of all telecom companies in mapping out their old licenses to new authorizations, readjusting their bank guarantees, reconfiguring their entry fees, and rewriting their compliance procedures. It is possible that some of the marginal operators in the industry might opt to withdraw from the scene. The net economic impact is positive: a simpler, stronger regulatory base for digital infrastructure and services. Is This the Right Decision or Just an Added Burden? Why It Is Broadly the Right Decision These rules are a necessary companion to the Telecommunications Act, 2023. Without migration rules, India would have been stuck running two systems at once - a new Act sitting alongside a zoo of old licences. That would have created endless confusion. No additional service requirements are placed in addition to the existing ones on the operators. Existing service requirements are simply carried over to the new framework. There is predictability about the time limits, conditions, and processes of the portals used. The explicit carry-forward of roll-out obligations and dues protects government revenue and consumer interests at the same time as it enables modernisation. Where It Feels Like an Additional Burden Companies must pay processing fees, and sometimes extra entry fees and higher bank guarantees to match the new authorisation requirements. They must plan and apply well before their licences expire. Overlapping authorisations have to be surrendered even if some business teams valued them as a safety net. These are real transitional costs. But in regulatory terms, they are reasonable. The benefits of a unified, modern authorisation system clearly outweigh these one-time transitional challenges. There is no direct environmental burden in these rules. They do not change spectrum power limits, tower norms, radiation standards, or environmental clearances - separate regulations cover those. How This Improves Business Conditions, Transparency, and "Product Quality" Business Conditions: Standard authorisation templates for principal services, miscellaneous services, captive services, and networks make long-term investment planning simpler. Telecom companies and VNOs can bundle services, restructure corporate groups, and expand coverage areas within a clearer and more predictable framework. Transparency: Eligibility criteria published, fee structures explained, time frames outlined, and procedures for the online portal are not open to interpretation or negotiation. The Letters of Intent and migration approvals are based on policies available to everyone. Service Quality (Indirectly): By carrying forward roll-out obligations and compliance certificates, the rules ensure that quality-of-service commitments do not quietly disappear during the migration process. A more organised regulatory base also allows TRAI and DoT to set consistent quality-of-service standards across all authorisation holders. Business Opportunities Created The Migration Rules, 2026, open real commercial opportunities for certain businesses: Regulatory and Legal Advisory: There is already an increasing demand for people who can match up old licences with new ones, determine any fee and difference liabilities, draft applications and undertakings, and manage migration deadlines. This is specialized work that telecommunications companies will be willing to pay for. Corporate Restructuring and M&A: Telecom groups with many entities and licences may use migration as an opportunity to reorganise. Cleaner authorisation portfolios make it easier to sell, merge, or spin off parts of a business. RegTech and Compliance Platforms: Software tools that track licences, authorisations, validity timelines, pending dues, bank guarantees, and roll-out obligations across multiple group entities will find ready buyers among large telecom groups. Specialist Telecom Consultancies: Smaller ISPs, VNOs, PMRTS operators, and niche licence holders need guidance on whether to migrate, consolidate operations, or exit the market. That creates steady work for specialist advisors across the country.

Subject

Summary: The Central Government has introduced the Telecommunications (Authorisation for Captive Telecommunication Services) Rules, 2026, to provide a clear regulatory framework for captive telecom networks in India. The rules cover private 4G and 5G networks, captive radio trunking, captive VSAT services and certain government captive networks. They also define the eligibility, authorisation process and compliance requirements for organisations planning to operate these networks. Core Features and Start Date The rules set out the legal framework for captive telecom services. The key details below explain their commencement, legal authority and the types of services covered. Name: Telecommunications (Authorisation for Captive Telecommunication Services) Rules, 2026. Issued under: Telecommunications Act, 2023. Effective from: The date of publication in the Official Gazette (Gazette No. CG-DL-E-23062026-273771). What they cover: Terms and conditions for authorisations to provide four kinds of captive telecom services: Captive Mobile Radio Trunking Services (CMRTS): land mobile radio for internal use (e.g., police, mining, factories). Captive Non-public Networks (CNPN): private LTE/5G type networks in enterprises. Captive VSAT (very small aperture terminal) Services: private satellite data connectivity between an entity’s own locations. Captive General Services: a special category mainly for government / government-controlled entities in defined geographies. Authorisation is only for captive use; no public/commercial telecom services can be offered on these networks. Why Has DoT Introduced the New Policy? The policy aims to provide a dedicated framework for captive telecom services while replacing the earlier system followed under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. Key drivers: New Telecom Act: The Telecommunications Act, 2023, requires a modern authorisation regime instead of legacy licenses under the 1885 Telegraph Act. Explosion of private networks: Enterprises want private 4G/5G, Wi Fi offload, factory automation networks, ports/mines private connectivity, in-house VSAT, etc. Earlier rules were unclear, slow and often depended on case-by-case approvals. Need to ring fence public networks vs captive: Without clear rules, there was a risk of captive networks being misused to provide quasi-public services, undercutting telecom service providers and creating security gaps. Security and “trusted source” agenda: The rules hardwire security requirements, data localisation, and the use of trusted equipment for sensitive networks. Migration from legacy licenses: Entities holding older overlapping licenses under the Telegraph Act or other regimes need a clean migration and surrender path. So the intent is to promote industrial/private network innovation while maintaining security, orderly spectrum use and a clean boundary with public telecom services. Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Captive Telecom Authorisation? To apply, you must be either: 1. A company FDI must comply with the Government’s FDI policy and applicable law. Management must have a sound telecom/network track record. 2. Government/government-controlled entities Central/State Government departments, legislative bodies, courts, scheduled area administrations or other government-controlled entities (including autonomous bodies and not-for-profit government companies). Additional rules: For “captive general services”: only government / government-controlled entities (not private limited / non-government companies) can apply, unless DoT specifically relaxes this in public interest. Applicants must have no pending dues, unless a court stays payment and a specific undertaking is filed. Financial terms: Fees and Guarantees From the Schedule and relevant rules: Processing fee (one-time, per application): CMRTS: Rs 10,000 CNPN: Rs 10,000 Captive VSAT: Rs 10,000 Captive general services: Nil Entry fee (one-time): CMRTS: Nil CNPN: Nil Captive VSAT: Rs 7.5 lakh Captive general services: Nil Initial guarantee (bank guarantee/performance bond/cash deposit): CMRTS: Rs 20,000 CNPN: Nil Captive VSAT: Rs 3 lakh Captive general services: Nil Annual authorisation fee (illustrative for two key categories): CMRTS: Base: Rs 300 per user terminal, minimum Rs 5,000 per year. From year 4 onwards / on renewal: the minimum goes up to Rs 25,000. Police, fire, and government security services are exempt from the annual fee. Captive VSAT: Rs 10,000 per VSAT (including “earth station in motion”) per year. Fee payable quarterly in advance/arrears, with interest on delays at SBI MCLR + 2%. There is no authorisation fee for captive general services, and CNPN’s recurring fees come primarily from underlying spectrum arrangements rather than the authorisation itself. Compliance Requirements for Businesses under the New Rules Businesses planning to use captive telecom services must follow specific procedures to obtain authorisation and meet ongoing compliance requirements. The rules also lay down security, reporting, renewal and operational obligations throughout the authorisation period. 1. Getting an authorisation Apply online via the DoT portal in the prescribed form, attach the required documents, and pay the processing fee. If you hold an older, overlapping license/authorisation, you must surrender/waive it as per rule 6(3) and 8, old LOIs (letters of intent) under the Telegraph Act lapse if they did not lead to a license before these rules came into force. DoT may issue a Letter of Intent specifying: Payment of the applicable entry fee and guarantee. Surrender of overlapping licenses. Once LOI conditions are met, DoT issues the authorisation, specifying scope, service area, duration (up to 20 years), and effective date. 2. Obligations during the authorisation period Once the authorisation is granted, businesses must continue to meet the conditions prescribed under the rules. Some of the key compliance requirements include: Businesses must continue to satisfy the eligibility conditions, including compliance with FDI regulations, maintaining a suitable management structure and ensuring there are no outstanding government dues.  An annual certificate from the statutory auditor must be submitted confirming the shareholding pattern, including foreign investment, the ownership and control structure and compliance with the prescribed eligibility requirements. Any change in the company's shareholding, ownership, name, registered address or control must be reported to the Department of Telecommunications within the prescribed time. Authorisation fees must be paid every quarter. Where applicable, businesses must also maintain the required bank guarantee, performance guarantee or security deposit throughout the authorisation period. Payment delays may attract interest. For CNPN and VSAT, obtain spectrum lawfully: CNPN can lease access spectrum from a telco or obtain spectrum directly from the government; in either case, there is no automatic right to spectrum just because you have an authorisation. VSAT spectrum is obtained under applicable satellite/spectrum rules; this authorisation only covers network operations. 3. Network and data obligations: Use the network strictly for captive use, not to provide public/commercial telecom services. Keep all network systems within the authorised service area, restrict CNPN radio signals within the logical perimeter (geo coordinates) of the premises. Store all network data, logs and information within India; don’t send copies outside India. Maintain extensive logs of CDRs, IP detail records, exchange logs, etc., as per Government directions. Ensure the network does not cause harmful interference, and resolve issues as directed by the Government. 4. Security and “trusted products” Key board positions (majority directors) must be Indian citizens. CTO/network head, security and system administrators must be Indian citizens; foreign personnel require MHA security clearance and periodic re-verification. Only trusted telecom equipment from trusted sources can be deployed where mandated by the National Cyber Security Coordinator’s “trusted source/products” lists. Before procuring critical equipment, an entity must: Check if the equipment and vendor are on the trusted list; if not, follow the process to get clearance. Register and periodically report deployed equipment and its sources. 5. Network deployment and monitoring Obtain special approvals to deploy networks in sensitive / border / restricted areas specified by the Government. Provide monitoring facilities and lawful interception capabilities as directed, at own cost. Allow inspections and audits by the Government or designated agencies. Appoint a nodal officer in India responsible for compliance and communication with DoT. 6. Renewal, surrender, lapse Authorisation can be renewed (up to 20 years at a time) by applying at least 12 months before expiry, paying processing fees, and updating guarantees. Surrender is allowed, but all dues must be paid, and the spectrum will be taken back. If authorisation is revoked, surrendered, or expires, the entity must dispose of the radio equipment per law and cease network operations. Guarantees are released only after all dues are cleared. Which Businesses Will Benefit the Most from the New Rules? The new authorisation framework is designed to support industries that depend on secure, reliable and dedicated communication networks for their day-to-day operations. Businesses across manufacturing, logistics, critical infrastructure, government and other sectors can use these rules to deploy captive telecom networks with greater regulatory clarity and operational flexibility. Industrial and logistics enterprises (CNPN) Manufacturing units, refineries, steel plants, automobile manufacturers, semiconductor facilities, ports, airports, warehouses, logistics hubs and mining operations are among the biggest beneficiaries of these rules. These businesses can deploy private 4G or 5G networks to support automation, improve communication across their facilities and manage day-to-day operations more efficiently. They can now run private 4G/5G or other non-public networks with a clear legal basis and defined process for spectrum leasing or assignment. Gains better automation, robotics, AGVs, IoT, predictive maintenance, and digital twins. Large campuses and critical infrastructure IT parks, data centres, university campuses, R&D parks, power plants, and metro/rail systems benefit from captive networks for operations and safety, without entering the full telecom licensing regime. Sectors needing private radio trunking (CMRTS) Police, fire, disaster response, municipal bodies, transport undertakings, airports, ports, mining and construction sites benefit from a modernized captive mobile radio trunking regime with reasonable license fees (or fee exemptions for critical services). Enterprises with distributed sites (VSAT captive services) Banks, oil & gas networks, remote plants, offshore platforms, and border posts gain from a clear, dedicated captive VSAT authorisation with a predictable annual fee per terminal. The rules explicitly state that M2M/IoT devices are not counted as VSATs for fee purposes, lowering the cost of satellite IoT deployments. Government networks (captive general services) Government departments and government-controlled entities get a zero fee authorisation category for defined captive networks (for example, specialised internal communications networks in specific regions), with strong security and localisation features. Impact on Businesses, Transparency and Service Quality The Captive Telecommunication Services Authorisation Rules, 2026, are expected to improve the way captive telecom networks are deployed and managed in India. By introducing a structured authorisation process and clearly defined compliance requirements, the rules aim to support business growth while promoting greater transparency, stronger security standards and improved service quality across private telecom networks. Better legal certainty and ease of doing business Clear definitions of CNPN, CMRTS, captive VSAT and captive general services remove ambiguity that previously required case-by-case clarifications. A single, digital portal for applications, fees, guarantees and reporting improves predictability and cuts red tape. Migration and surrender of overlapping licenses is codified, preventing chronic licensing clutter. Encouraging Industry 4.0 and innovation The new rules provide greater regulatory clarity, making it easier for businesses to plan long-term investments in private telecom networks. This can support automation, connected devices and other digital technologies across industrial operations. The CNPN rules explicitly allow spectrum leasing from telecom service providers or direct assignment by the Government, enabling businesses to choose between telecom operator-managed private networks and self-managed private networks. Stronger security and data governance The rules strengthen network security by requiring Indian citizens in key roles, security clearance for foreign personnel, data localisation and the use of trusted telecom equipment. National security and cybersecurity concerns are addressed upfront, reducing the risk that private networks become soft spots in critical infrastructure. Product and service quality The combination of security, logging, and interference control obligations pushes enterprises and vendors to maintain carrier-grade practices even on private networks. Interference controls and spectrum rules protect public networks and other captive users from being degraded by poorly engineered private systems. Impact on the Indian economy Boost to Manufacturing, Ports, Logistics, and Mining: private networks enhance productivity, safety and real-time control, supporting Make in India, PM GatiShakti and logistics cost reduction. Catalyst for Telecom Equipment and System Integrators: new demand for RAN, core, edge, industrial IoT, network slicing, and security solutions tailored to CNPN and captive VSAT deployments. Higher FDI Comfort: foreign investors in factories and data centres get a more transparent regulatory route for internal connectivity and automation. Better National Security Posture: secure, well-regulated captive networks reduce the risk of cyber attacks, espionage and sabotage in critical installations, which indirectly protects economic assets and continuity. Overall economic impact is positive, with more efficient industries, new telecom/IT services revenue, and better resilience. Is the New Framework a Step Forward or an Additional Compliance Burden? Like any major regulatory change, these rules bring both advantages and additional compliance responsibilities. While the framework creates a clear legal pathway for captive telecom networks, businesses will also need to meet new security, reporting and operational requirements. Understanding both sides is important before planning implementation. Positives Enabling: For the first time, there is a comprehensive, modern legal base for private 5G, captive VSAT and trunking networks under the new Act. Predictable costs: Fees and guarantees are modest relative to typical project sizes. CNPN has no entry fee and no guarantee, which is notably liberal. Security with clarity: The rules clearly specify security requirements, including data localisation, the use of trusted equipment and security clearance for foreign personnel. No automatic spectrum lock-in: Authorisation doesn’t guarantee spectrum; it forces disciplined spectrum management and cooperation with telcos or DoT. Real burdens and challenges Compliance is non-trivial: Annual auditor certificates, shareholding disclosures, and reporting on any change in control. Detailed security and logging requirements, lawful interception facilities, and inspections. Trusted equipment rules may increase capex or limit vendor choices, especially for smaller enterprises. Some MSMEs may find the regulatory overhead high relative to small-scale private networks, pushing them toward telco-managed solutions instead of self-run CNPN. Although the rules introduce additional compliance requirements, they also provide greater regulatory clarity and stronger security. For most businesses, the long-term benefits are likely to outweigh the additional compliance effort. Business Opportunities under the New Rules  The new rules are expected to make it easier for businesses to set up and operate captive telecom networks under a clear regulatory framework. At the same time, they introduce new compliance, security and reporting requirements that businesses will need to manage on an ongoing basis. Telcos and system integrators: Designing, deploying and managing CNPNs, CMRTS and captive VSAT networks for factories, ports, mines, airports, and campuses. Telecom equipment vendors: Supplying a trusted source compliant RAN, core, routers, VSATs, industrial CPEs, and security appliances. Consulting and compliance services: The new rules are expected to increase demand for consultants who can assist businesses with authorisation applications, eligibility checks, regulatory compliance and ongoing reporting requirements. Cyber security and monitoring: Businesses may also require specialised cyber security solutions for log management, network monitoring, lawful interception compliance and regular security audits. Industrial IoT and automation platforms: Providers of Industrial IoT and automation solutions can leverage captive telecom networks to support applications such as robotics, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), remote maintenance using AR/VR and digital twins.

Subject

Summary: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), under the Ministry of Communications, published the Telecommunications (Spectrum Assignment by Administrative Process) Rules, 2026, in the Gazette of India Extraordinary on 17th June 2026. This is a comprehensive legislative framework made under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 (Act 44 of 2023) that replaces the older Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, legacy spectrum management framework. The rules govern how the Central Government assigns radio spectrum to organisations through an administrative (non-auction) process across 19 defined use categories listed in the First Schedule to the Act. Why DoT Introduced This Policy? The old spectrum assignment framework operated under the Indian Telegraph Act of 1885, a 140-year-old colonial-era law that lacked digitization, transparency, and flexibility for modern use cases. Several forces drove the need for this new policy: Telecommunications Act, 2023, mandated fresh subordinate rules for spectrum management. These Draft Rules are the direct legislative outcome of that mandate. India's rapid expansion into satellite communications, 5G, drone operations, IoT, and space-based services required a consolidated, purpose-built regulatory structure for non-auction spectrum. The old system lacked a single digital portal for applications, renewals, and compliance, creating opacity and delays across industries. Growing national security concerns required explicit provisions for lawful interception, security clearances, and spectrum use near international borders and sensitive areas. Implementation Date The rules are currently in the draft stage and were published on 17th June 2026. The Gazette notification provides a 30-day public consultation window, during which objections or suggestions may be sent to the Joint Secretary (Telecommunications), DoT, New Delhi. The rules will come into force on the date specified by the Central Government in a notification in the Official Gazette, meaning the final implementation date has yet to be officially announced. No fixed date is embedded in the draft. Scope: 19 Categories of Spectrum Use The rules cover spectrum assignment across these core categories under Schedule I: Entry Category Who Can Apply 1 National Security & Defence Central Government / designated agency 2 Law Enforcement & Crime Prevention Central/State Govt. / designated agency 3 Public Broadcasting Services Licensed/authorised entities 4 Disaster Management Govt, statutory bodies, private entities 5 Scientific Research & Exploration Govt, statutory bodies, private entities 6 Transport Safety (Roads, Rail, Metro, Ports, Airports) Govt, statutory bodies, private entities 7 Conservation of Natural Resources & Wildlife Govt, statutory bodies, private entities 8 Meteorological / Weather Forecasting Govt, statutory bodies, private entities 9 Amateur/Navigation/Telemetry Bands Govt, statutory bodies, eligible individuals 10 Mines, Ports, Oil Exploration Safety Govt, statutory bodies, private entities 11 Public Mobile Radio Trunking (PMRT) Licensed entities 12 Radio Backhaul for Telecom Licensed telecom entities 13 Community Radio Stations Licensed entities 14 In-Flight & Maritime Connectivity Licensed entities zero spectrum charge 15 Space Research & Satellite Control Govt, statutory bodies, private entities 16 Satellite-Based Services (DTH, VSAT, Teleports, etc.) Licensed entities 17 Govt Telecom Services Central/State Govt 18 BSNL & MTNL BSNL and MTNL specifically 19 Testing, Trials, Regulatory Sandbox Govt, statutory bodies, authorised entities How Stakeholders Are Affected  The Draft Spectrum Assignment Rules 2026 introduce sector-specific obligations and opportunities, affecting telecom, government, transport, research and space stakeholders. Telecom Operators & Broadcasters Licensed telecom companies, radio broadcasters, community radio stations, satellite TV channels, DTH providers and VSAT operators must obtain formal spectrum assignments via the new digital portal. Each application requires payment of a non-refundable Rs1, 000 application fee, along with technical data sheets, frequency parameters, geographic area of operation, and proof of lawful interception capability where applicable. Defense, Police & Government Agencies National security, law enforcement, and disaster management agencies have dedicated spectrum categories (Entries 1-4). These entities benefit from relaxed site clearance requirements they may apply for installation clearances even after spectrum assignment is granted, unlike private entities who must do so before. Transport Sector (Railways, Metro, Aviation, Ports) Entities operating roads, railways, metro systems, inland waterways, airports, and pipelines fall under Entry 6 and may use Land Mobile, Maritime and Aeronautical, Radar, and Satellite services. These entities must hold both a spectrum assignment and the relevant sector specific permissions under applicable law. Mining, Oil & Gas Industries Under Entry 10, mines, ports, and oil exploration entities can obtain captive spectrum for safety and operational communications. If they deploy captive mobile radio trunking networks they must also hold an authorisation under the Telecommunications (Authorisation for Captive Telecommunication Services) Rules, 2026. Space & Satellite Companies New and private space entities (under Entry 15 and 16), including those operating VSAT, satellite launch facilities, teleports, and satellite-based communication platforms now have a clear, codified path for spectrum assignment. Commercial VSAT operators have a dedicated Annexure-IX for satellite-based commercial communication services. Research Institutions & Innovation Labs Under Entry 19 (Testing, Trials, Regulatory Sandbox), universities, research institutions, and private innovators can obtain short-term experimental spectrum to test new technologies including 5G/6G use cases, IoT, and AI-driven wireless applications. This is a significant enabler for India's emerging deeptech and startup ecosystem. Who Gets Maximum Benefit The businesses and entities that gain the most from this policy are: Private Space Technology Companies: Starlink-type operators, satellite internet providers, and NewSpace startups now have a structured regulatory pathway they previously lacked. Industrial Captive Network Operators: Factories, mines, and ports deploying private 5G/LTE networks for automation can seek dedicated spectrum under Entries 6 and 10. Railway & Metro Rail Projects: Dedicated spectrum for safety and operational communications under Entry 6 removes earlier ambiguity. R&D and Deeptech Startups: Entry 19's Regulatory Sandbox category allows testing without long-term commitment. Aviation & Maritime Sector: In-flight and maritime connectivity (Entry 14) comes with zero spectrum charges, a major cost relief for airlines and shipping companies. Compliance Requirements for Businesses Any assignee under these rules must comply with the following ongoing obligations: Maintain an updated and secure inventory of all authorised radio equipment, operable only by authorised personnel. Ensure the telecom network does not interfere with other permitted networks. Prohibit connection of captive networks to public switched networks (PSTN, PLMN, satellite internet) unless explicitly permitted by the Central Government. Comply with network standards notified under Section 19 of the Telecommunications Act, 2023. Report any security incidents including unauthorised access, jamming, spoofing, or cloning on the DoT portal. Not transfer or assign spectrum to any other entity without prior written approval from the Central Government. Implement spectrum modifications ordered by the Government within prescribed timelines. Dispose of radio equipment within 2-3 months of spectrum expiry, surrender, or revocation. Transparency and Digital Governance One of the strongest provisions of these rules is the creation of a unified digital portal under Rule 14. All applications, letters of intent, spectrum assignments, renewals, surrenders, compliance reporting and penalty orders will be processed and published through this portal. This eliminates the opacity of the legacy manual system, reduces corruption risk, and creates a publicly verifiable trail of spectrum utilisation across India. The Central Government is also empowered to publish orders, directions, and guidelines on the portal, and all revocation or suspension orders must be published there with immediate effect ensuring real-time regulatory transparency. Impact on the Indian Economy The macroeconomic implications are substantial: Make in India & Industry 4.0: Dedicated spectrum for factories, ports, and logistics facilities can help businesses adopt automation, improve operational efficiency and expand smart manufacturing initiatives. Space Economy: Clearer spectrum allocation rules provide greater certainty for satellite operators and space companies, supporting investment, innovation, and the growth of India's space sector. Digital India Backbone: Enhanced access to radio backhaul and VSAT services can improve connectivity in rural and underserved areas, helping strengthen digital services, financial inclusion, and e-governance initiatives. Tourism and Aviation: Zero-charge in-flight connectivity spectrum directly lowers costs for airlines, potentially improving passenger experience and airline viability. Startup Ecosystem: Regulatory sandboxes lower the barrier to entry for wireless technology innovators, catalysing FDI and domestic investment in telecom R&D. Disaster Resilience: Clearer spectrum rights for emergency management agencies improve India's ability to respond to natural disasters. Is This a Right Decision or a Burden? The Draft Spectrum Assignment Rules 2026 bring both compliance obligations and long-term advantages, prompting debate over their overall impact. Arguments in Favor (Right Decision) The rules replace a 140-year-old colonial law with a modern, sector-specific framework that reflects actual 21st-century usage. A single digital portal eliminates multiple physical applications and reduces bureaucratic delays. Standardised charges and transparent fee schedules (Annexures I-XIII) remove ambiguity in pricing. Sector-specific conditions prevent spectrum misuse while allowing legitimate captive use by industry. The 30-day public consultation process demonstrates democratic intent; businesses can formally object or suggest changes before rules are finalized. Zero spectrum charges for in-flight/maritime connectivity is a progressive, pro-industry measure. Potential Challenges for Businesses Companies must demonstrate lawful interception capability before receiving spectrum, which involves additional technical infrastructure investment. Key managerial personnel of private companies must meet security criteria defined by the Central Government on the portal, which may pose challenges for foreign-invested firms. Spectrum transfers between entities require prior Central Government approval, limiting commercial flexibility. No refund of spectrum fees is available upon suspension or revocation of the assignment, creating financial exposure in compliance disputes. BSNL and MTNL are explicitly carved out from the renewal mechanism, requiring them to reapply each time a structural disadvantage for these public sector operators. Overall, the Draft Spectrum Assignment Rules 2026 represent an important step towards a more structured and transparent spectrum management system. While businesses will need to complete certain compliance formalities such as registration, documentation, and application requirements, these efforts are relatively manageable. In return, organisations gain greater clarity on spectrum access, improved regulatory certainty, and a more predictable operating environment, which can support long-term planning and investment decisions. Business Opportunities Created The Draft Spectrum Assignment Rules 2026 create new commercial opportunities by formalizing spectrum access, encouraging innovation, supporting private networks, and enabling specialized service providers across telecommunications, satellite communications, industrial automation and emerging technology sectors. Telecom Infrastructure Companies Building lawful interception systems, network monitoring tools, and secure portal-compliant radio equipment. Spectrum Consulting Firms Guiding enterprises through eligibility, documentation, and application under 19 different spectrum categories. Private 5G/LTE Network Integrators Setting up captive networks for industries, ports, and smart cities. Satellite Ground Station Operators Entry 15 now provides a legal framework to commercially operate ground stations for satellite control Community Radio Entrepreneurs Simplified spectrum assignment for low-power FM and community radio with reasonable annual fees (Rs 22,500 for community radio). New Space Startups Entry 19's regulatory sandbox allows experimental spectrum access for testing satellite launches, drone swarms, and next-generation wireless protocols without committing to long-term licenses.