The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is setting a new standard for infrastructure planning — one where digital connectivity stands shoulder to shoulder with basic necessities like water, electricity, and structural safety.
At a recent workshop held at TRAI headquarters in New Delhi, TRAI Chairperson Anil Kumar Lahoti introduced the ‘Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024’, a voluntary framework that assesses how digitally ready a property is for delivering high-speed broadband and mobile services.
“Almost 70–80% of mobile data usage today happens indoors,” said Lahoti. “That’s why digital infrastructure must be planned right from the design stage — not added as an afterthought.” This includes the civil, physical, and tech components that make up Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI).
The new rating system provides a transparent, performance-based, and technology-neutral approach for property developers, infrastructure providers, and public agencies. It applies across a wide range of premises — from homes and hospitals to offices, airports, schools, transport hubs, and smart cities.
Much like green building or energy efficiency scores, this star-rating system aims to guide both private and government stakeholders in integrating digital connectivity into core development plans.
Lahoti encouraged Ministries, Departments, and institutions to adopt DCI planning into model tender documents, project guidelines, and technical training. This move aligns with national programs like Digital India and the Smart Cities Mission, pushing for inclusive and future-proof digital access across India.
TRAI will continue hosting workshops and stakeholder sessions to help scale this initiative nationwide — ensuring that India’s infrastructure is built not just for today’s needs, but for tomorrow’s digital demands.