TRAI opens review of interconnection rules to align with 4G/5G, IP networks, and satellite services

Consultation paper proposes a forward-looking framework on IP-based interconnect, POIs for satellite gateways, and a refresh of charges and RIO regime; comments due Dec 8

New Delhi, Nov 11: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released a consultation paper to overhaul the country’s interconnection regulations, aiming to reflect rapid technology shifts—especially IP-based networking, nationwide 4G/5G rollout, and emerging satellite services. Issued under Section 11(1)(b) of the TRAI Act, the review covers nine regulations spanning 1999–2018 and seeks to ensure the framework is contemporary, interoperable, and resilient to future evolution.

TRAI notes that parts of the current modalities have become technically obsolete. The paper examines a transition to IP-based interconnection, revisits levels of interconnection (presently at LSA for mobile and district/tehsil for fixed line), and addresses satellite-based telecom networks, including the nature and location of Points of Interconnect (POIs) at satellite earth station gateways and their linkage with satellite, mobile, and fixed networks.

A comprehensive review of charges during interconnection is also on the table—covering interconnection charges, interconnection usage charges (origination, transit, carriage, transit carriage, termination, and international termination), and the Reference Interconnect Offer (RIO) framework.

The exercise builds on a pre-consultation issued on April 3, 2025. Stakeholders can submit written comments by December 8, 2025, and counter-comments by December 22, 2025 (adv-nsl1@trai.gov.in). For clarifications, contact Sameer Gupta, advisor (Networks, Spectrum & Licensing-I), +91-11-20907752. The consultation paper is available on trai.gov.in.

Scope of the review (nine regulations under consideration)

• The Telecommunication Interconnection Regulations, 2018
• The Short Message Services (SMS) Termination Charges Regulations, 2013
• Intelligent Network Services in Multi-Operator and Multi-Network Scenario Regulations, 2006
• TRAI (Transit Charges for BSNL’s Cell One Terminating Traffic) Regulations, 2005
• The Telecommunication Interconnection Usage Charges Regulations, 2003
• The Telecommunication Interconnection (Reference Interconnect Offer) Regulations, 2002
• The Telecommunication Interconnection (Charges and Revenue Sharing) Regulations, 2001
• The Telecommunication Interconnection (Port Charges) Regulations, 2001
• The Register of Interconnect Agreements Regulations, 1999

Why it matters: Interconnection rules underpin fair competition, non-discrimination, and seamless consumer experience in a multi-operator market. With traffic migrating to all-IP, 5G slicing, VoLTE/VoNR, and satellite broadband, a refreshed regime is critical to preserve service quality and investment certainty while enabling next-gen networks.