DoT Releases National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 to Align India with Global Spectrum Standards
NFAP-2025 introduces expanded spectrum provisions for In-Flight and Maritime Connectivity (IFMC), facilitating seamless broadband services for passengers aboard aircraft and vessels. The move supports the growing demand for uninterrupted connectivity during air and sea travel.
New Delhi, December 31: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, has released the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 (NFAP-2025), a key policy document that will guide the allocation and management of radio-frequency spectrum in India. The revised plan will come into effect from December 30, 2025, marking a significant step towards aligning India’s spectrum framework with evolving global standards and future digital technologies.
NFAP-2025 provides a comprehensive allocation of radio-frequency spectrum across the range of 8.3 kHz to 3,000 GHz, serving as a critical reference for spectrum planners, wireless service providers, telecom equipment manufacturers and policymakers. The plan underpins the rollout of next-generation telecom and satellite services while ensuring efficient and harmonised spectrum use.
Boost for 5G, 6G and satellite broadband
One of the most significant updates in NFAP-2025 is the identification of the 6,425–7,125 MHz band for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT). This move substantially expands mid-band spectrum availability, which is essential for the deployment of 5G, 5G Advanced and future 6G networks, offering higher capacity and improved performance.
The plan also earmarks Ka, Q and V bands for satellite-based services, enabling high-throughput communications through both Geo-Stationary Orbit (GSO) satellites and large non-GSO constellations. These allocations are expected to strengthen India’s satellite broadband ecosystem, particularly for remote and underserved regions.
Enhanced connectivity in air and at sea
NFAP-2025 introduces expanded spectrum provisions for In-Flight and Maritime Connectivity (IFMC), facilitating seamless broadband services for passengers aboard aircraft and vessels. The move supports the growing demand for uninterrupted connectivity during air and sea travel.
Support for emerging technologies
The updated frequency plan also accommodates emerging and future technologies, including Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communications, Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium-Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite services, and advanced broadband solutions. These provisions are aimed at enabling smarter transportation systems, next-generation mobility and resilient digital infrastructure.
Future-ready spectrum policy
Officials said NFAP-2025 reflects India’s commitment to a responsive, high-capacity and globally harmonised spectrum management framework, ensuring that the country is well-positioned to adopt cutting-edge digital innovations. By anticipating future demand and aligning with international norms, the new plan is expected to strengthen the telecom and satellite ecosystem and support the growth of India’s digital economy.
