The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued the Manual for Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity, marking the country’s first standardised framework for evaluating how effectively buildings are equipped for high-speed and reliable digital access.
With over 80% of mobile data consumed indoors and the high-frequency signals of 4G and 5G often weakened by modern building materials, strong in-building networks have become essential for work, education, healthcare, and everyday digital services. Poor indoor connectivity can significantly impact consumer experience and the overall quality of service.
Developed under the Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024, the manual:
- Establishes a uniform assessment methodology for Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs).
- Serves as a reference framework for Property Managers (PMs) and Service Providers to plan, implement, and maintain future-ready Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI).
- Defines transparent and standardised criteria for property ratings, including fibre readiness, in-building mobile coverage, Wi-Fi coverage, broadband speeds, and overall user experience.
- Enables buyers, tenants, and businesses to make informed decisions based on actual digital connectivity performance.
- Encourages developers to integrate robust digital infrastructure from the design and construction stage.
“In the 21st century, digital connectivity is not a luxury; it is essential infrastructure, just like electricity or water. Today, it powers growth, innovation, and opportunity. This framework is a critical step toward making every building in India ready for the Digital India vision, allowing more citizens to participate fully in our connected economy and laying the foundation for inclusive national growth,” stated Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti, Chairman of TRAI.
Over the past decade, India has experienced rapid digital transformation, reshaping how citizens work, learn, access healthcare, and engage with public services. Reliable digital infrastructure now supports economic growth, innovation, and social welfare. As most data usage occurs indoors, ensuring robust in-building digital connectivity has become crucial.
To tackle this issue, TRAI notified the Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024, on October 25, 2024, establishing a standardised and collaborative framework for evaluating DCI. The Draft Manual for Assessment of Digital Connectivity, released on May 13, 2025, for public consultation, garnered feedback from fourteen stakeholders, including service providers, infrastructure providers, consumer organisations, and potential DCRAs. One consumer organisation also submitted counter-comments. This manual incorporates refined definitions, clearer assessment criteria, and strengthened implementation guidelines to ensure fair, credible, and consistent ratings nationwide while considering the comments and counter-comments received. The analysis of these comments is available on the TRAI website for reference.
