Department of Telecommunications

Timeline

1. 3 Sep2026
   Science and tech

   DCC clears satellite spectrum framework, moving Starlink closer to India launch¹²

   The Digital Communications Commission, then the top decision body of the Department of Telecommunications (dissolved by a DoT resolution dated 19 September 2026), approved most of TRAI's recommendations on assigning satellite spectrum administratively. The framework now goes to the Union Cabinet. Starlink, OneWeb and Jio's satellite venture still need spectrum assignment and final security clearance before commercial service.

   • DCC meeting on 3 September 2026 approved most TRAI recommendations on satcom spectrum
   • Next step is Union Cabinet approval of the pricing and allocation framework
   • Spectrum assignment proposed for five years, extendable by two
   • Starlink holds a GMPCS licence from DoT (June 2025) and IN-SPACe authorisation (July 2025)
   • Services cannot start before spectrum assignment and the second stage of security clearance
2. 3 Dec2025
   Polity

   Centre withdraws order to pre-install Sanchar Saathi on phones³⁴⁵

   The Department of Telecommunications had ordered handset makers to pre-install the government cyber-safety app Sanchar Saathi on all new phones. After a privacy backlash the government withdrew the mandate on 3 December, saying the app would remain voluntary.

   • DoT directive dated 28 November 2025 asked phone makers to pre-install Sanchar Saathi
   • Mandate withdrawn 3 December 2025 after privacy backlash
   • Government cited surge in voluntary sign-ups (about 6 lakh in one day)
   • Minister of Communications: Jyotiraditya Scindia

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Sources

1. MediaNama
2. The Pioneer
3. Onmanorama
4. The Tribune
5. Telecoms.com