TRAI Proposes Star Ratings for Buildings Based on Digital Connectivity

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released a draft manual introducing a star rating framework for evaluating buildings based on their digital connectivity. This pioneering system mirrors the star ratings seen in energy-efficient appliances and aims to assess how well a building supports modern connectivity infrastructure.

What the Star Rating Will Measure

Key Parameters:

• Mobile network availability

• Wi-Fi infrastructure strength

• Optical fiber readiness

The draft emphasizes that a large share of data consumption occurs indoors, and higher-frequency 4G and 5G signals often face signal degradation due to building materials and obstructions. Therefore, buildings with optimized design and infrastructure will naturally receive better connectivity scores.

Empowering Tenants and Property Managers

The proposed rating system is intended to empower:

• Tenants and homebuyers in comparing properties based on digital readiness.

• Property Managers (PMs) in implementing and improving Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) within their developments.

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) noted:

“The rating system will enable prospective tenants and buyers to compare properties based on their connectivity rating, ensuring they choose locations with the best digital infrastructure.”

Manual-Based Assessment and Transparent Evaluation

To maintain credibility and uniformity, Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs) will use a manual-based methodology to assess digital infrastructure and service quality.

“The rating manual will serve as a structured framework designed to ensure a fair, transparent, and standardized approach to assessing digital connectivity under the provisions of the regulation,” the TRAI report stated.

Value Addition for Stakeholders

TRAI anticipates that buildings with superior ratings will gain market advantages and attract greater interest from:

• Buyers

• Investors

• Telecom service providers

“TRAI suggests that infrastructure with higher ratings will be more likely to attract users, buyers, or investors, serving as a potential value addition for service providers.”

This initiative is part of TRAI’s larger plan to enhance transparency and service quality in digital infrastructure. It aligns with their recent directive asking telecom companies to publicly disclose their coverage maps and signal strength data on apps and websites.

Deadlines and Stakeholder Engagement

To promote open feedback, TRAI has invited comments on the draft until June 2, 2025, and counter-comments until June 9, 2025. This consultation process is vital to finalizing the rating mechanism in a way that benefits all sectors—residential, commercial, and institutional.

Conclusion

TRAI’s proposed star rating system marks a pivotal step toward enhancing India’s digital infrastructure at the grassroots level. As data consumption increasingly occurs indoors, evaluating buildings for their network-readiness becomes essential for delivering uninterrupted digital experiences.

By incorporating factors such as mobile signal strength, Wi-Fi availability, and fiber-optic preparedness, the initiative empowers tenants, buyers, and property developers to make informed choices. Moreover, it supports telecom operators in better network planning and investment decisions.

The rating system, supported by a structured manual and executed by designated Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs), ensures transparency and consistency in evaluation. Buildings with higher ratings could see greater demand and higher value in a digitally driven market. TRAI’s move aligns with India’s broader vision of a connected economy and offers a scalable model for smart urban development.

With public feedback open till June 2, this initiative is expected to drive real estate transformation through digital-first thinking.