TRAI Updates Digital Connectivity Rating Framework

The initiative is part of TRAI's broader effort to improve the quality of digital connectivity inside residential, commercial and public buildings.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released the amended 'Rating Manual 2026' for assessing digital connectivity in buildings and properties across the country. The revised framework aligns with the recently amended 'Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024' and takes immediate effect.

The initiative is part of TRAI's broader effort to improve the quality of digital connectivity inside residential, commercial and public buildings. As internet usage and digital services become increasingly essential, poor indoor network coverage has emerged as a major challenge for consumers. The rating framework seeks to encourage property developers, managers and service providers to integrate digital connectivity infrastructure into building design and operations.

The updated manual provides detailed guidance for Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs), property managers and telecom service providers involved in evaluating and improving digital connectivity standards.

Industry Feedback Leads to Key Revisions

TRAI first notified the Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024 in October 2024 and later released the original Rating Manual in August 2025. The manual established a standardised system for assessing the quality of digital infrastructure within properties.

During awareness programmes, workshops and stakeholder consultations, TRAI identified areas where additional clarity and refinements were needed. To address these concerns, the regulator released a consultation paper in February 2026 seeking feedback on possible revisions.

Following stakeholder comments and internal review, TRAI issued the Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 in May 2026. The newly released Rating Manual 2026 incorporates those amendments and updates the assessment methodology accordingly.

The regulator believes the revised framework will make the rating process more practical, transparent and adaptable to evolving technologies and building requirements.

New Features Include Digital Audits and Technology-Neutral Standards

Among the most significant changes is the introduction of a structured multi-stage assessment and certification process for under-construction properties. This allows developers to incorporate digital connectivity requirements during construction rather than after project completion.

The revised manual also introduces an optional digital connectivity audit that property owners can use to assess existing infrastructure and identify areas for improvement.

Other changes include greater flexibility in evaluating power infrastructure while maintaining reliability standards, broader monitoring options beyond traditional Building Management Systems (BMS), and a technology-neutral approach that permits both fibre-based and wireless backhaul solutions.

To ensure consistency in performance assessments, TRAI has also introduced a standardised testing mechanism using a designated application. The revised framework includes a defined sampling methodology for evaluating non-public areas and aligns the rating process with the latest National Building Construction Standards (NBCS), 2026.

Officials expect these measures to support better digital infrastructure planning, improve indoor connectivity experiences for users and encourage the adoption of future-ready communication systems in buildings across India.

The amended Rating Manual 2026 has been published on TRAI's official website and is now in force.