DoT Releases NFAP 2025 to Strengthen India’s Spectrum Policy for 5G, 6G, Satellites

New Delhi: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), functioning under the Ministry of Communications, has officially notified the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 (NFAP-2025), a crucial policy framework that governs the allocation, regulation, and use of radio-frequency spectrum across India. According to the Ministry of Communications, the updated plan will come into effect from Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

Once implemented, NFAP-2025 will act as the primary reference document for spectrum planners, telecom service providers, equipment manufacturers, and other stakeholders involved in wireless communications and digital infrastructure development in the country.

The new plan replaces the earlier framework and reflects India’s efforts to modernise spectrum management in line with evolving technologies and international best practices.

NFAP 2025 Spectrum Policy Sets New Framework for Frequency Allocation

NFAP-2025 provides a comprehensive and detailed allocation of radio-frequency spectrum spanning from 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz, covering a wide range of radio-communication services. The plan is aligned with global spectrum allocation standards, ensuring harmonisation and efficient use of this limited natural resource.

The policy is designed to support India’s expanding digital ecosystem by enabling future-ready spectrum planning that caters to increasing demand for mobile broadband, satellite services, and emerging wireless technologies. Officials said the plan aims to balance innovation, efficiency, and regulatory clarity across sectors.

NFAP 2025 Spectrum Policy Boosts Mid-Band Capacity for 5G and Beyond

One of the most significant enhancements under NFAP-2025 is the identification of the 6425–7125 MHz frequency band for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT). This move substantially increases the availability of mid-band spectrum, which is widely regarded as essential for high-speed and high-capacity mobile networks.

The additional mid-band spectrum is expected to play a critical role in the deployment and expansion of 5G, 5G Advanced, and future 6G services across India. Industry experts note that this allocation will help telecom operators improve network performance, coverage, and user experience, particularly in densely populated areas.

Satellite Communications Get Major Push Under New Plan

NFAP-2025 places strong emphasis on strengthening satellite communication capabilities by allocating Ka, Q, and V frequency bands for satellite-based services. These allocations are expected to support high-throughput Geo-Stationary Orbit (GSO) satellites, along with large-scale Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite constellations.

The expanded spectrum availability is aimed at enabling advanced satellite broadband services, improving connectivity in remote and underserved regions, and supporting next-generation space-based communication systems. The move aligns with India’s growing focus on space technology and digital inclusion.

In-Flight, Maritime and Emerging Technologies Covered

In addition to terrestrial and satellite services, NFAP-2025 provides additional spectrum support for In-Flight and Maritime Connectivity (IFMC). This will enable seamless broadband access for passengers and operational services on aircraft and maritime vessels.

The plan also accommodates emerging and future technologies such as Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, advanced satellite applications, and expanded broadband connectivity solutions. These provisions ensure that India’s spectrum framework remains adaptable to rapid technological change.

Summing up the objectives of the new plan, the Ministry of Communications stated that these enhancements will ensure India’s spectrum management system remains responsive, high-capacity, and harmonised with global standards. The ministry added that NFAP-2025 will support both current and future digital innovations, helping to strengthen the overall telecommunications and connectivity ecosystem in the country.