The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released the country’s first Manual for Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity, providing a standardised framework to assess how effectively buildings are equipped for high-speed, reliable digital access.
The move comes as over 80% of mobile data in India is consumed indoors, where high-frequency 4G and 5G signals are often weakened by modern construction materials. TRAI said robust in-building connectivity is now essential for work, education, healthcare, and everyday digital services, with weak networks directly affecting user experience and overall service quality.
The manual, developed under the Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024, sets a uniform assessment methodology for Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies and serves as a reference framework for property managers and service providers. It outlines clear, transparent criteria for evaluating fibre readiness, in-building mobile coverage, Wi-Fi access, broadband speeds, and overall user experience.
TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti said the framework marks “a decisive step towards making every building in India ready for the Digital India vision,” placing digital connectivity on par with essential services such as electricity and water. He said this will help citizens participate fully in the connected economy and support inclusive national growth.
The initiative encourages developers to integrate strong digital infrastructure from the design stage, enabling buyers, tenants, and businesses to make informed choices based on actual connectivity performance.
The regulations were notified on 25 October 2024, followed by a draft manual released on 13 May 2025 for public consultation. Fourteen stakeholders, including service providers, infrastructure firms, consumer organisations, and potential rating agencies, shared inputs, with one consumer organisation also submitting counter-comments. TRAI said the final manual incorporates refined definitions, clearer assessment criteria, and stronger implementation guidelines to ensure credible ratings nationwide. The analysis of all feedback has been published on the TRAI website.
