The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has unveiled a major policy document that will shape the future of wireless communication in the country. The National Frequency Allocation Plan (NFAP) 2025 came into effect on December 30, 2025, setting a new framework for managing the nation's radio-frequency spectrum.
What is the NFAP 2025 and Why It Matters
Acting under the Ministry of Communications, the DoT described the plan as a critical tool to ensure India's spectrum management stays responsive, high-capacity, and harmonised with global standards. The NFAP 2025 serves as the definitive guide for all spectrum-related activities, covering frequencies from 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz. It is an essential reference document for spectrum managers, telecom operators, and equipment manufacturers across the industry.
Key Upgrades and Future-Ready Allocations
The new plan introduces several strategic revisions designed to meet the exploding demand for data and next-generation technologies. A headline move is the formal identification of the 6425–7125 MHz band for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT). This allocation is poised to significantly boost the availability of mid-band spectrum, which is crucial for expanding existing 5G networks and laying the groundwork for 5G Advanced and future 6G deployments.
Beyond terrestrial networks, NFAP 2025 strongly focuses on the space sector. It includes specific allocations for Ka, Q, and V bands to fuel satellite-based services. This spectrum is vital for high-throughput Geo-Stationary Orbit (GSO) satellites and the rapidly growing constellations of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites, enabling advanced broadband and communication services from space.
Driving Connectivity and Emerging Technologies
The document also addresses connectivity in transit. It makes provisions for enhanced In-Flight and Maritime Connectivity (IFMC), aiming to deliver seamless broadband access in the skies and over the oceans. Furthermore, the plan carves out support for Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication, a foundational technology for developing intelligent and connected transportation systems in India's smart cities.
The Ministry of Communications emphasized that these comprehensive enhancements are designed to support both current and future digital innovations. By aligning with global standards and anticipating technological trends, the NFAP 2025 is expected to accelerate the development of a robust domestic ecosystem for telecom and digital services, powering India's growth as a digital economy.
