The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications, released the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 (NFAP-2025), which came into effect on December 30, 2025. NFAP-2025 provides the allocation of radio-frequency spectrum to various radio-communication services in the frequency range 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz, serving as an essential reference for spectrum managers, wireless operators, and telecom equipment manufacturers. The plan is designed to align India's spectrum management framework with global standards and enable next-generation communication technologies. A major highlight of NFAP-2025 is the formal identification of the 6425 to 7125 MHz band for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT), which enhances mid-band spectrum for 5G, 5G Advanced and future 6G networks. The plan also allocates the Ka, Q and V bands for satellite-based services, supporting both geo-stationary orbit (GSO) and non-GSO satellite constellations including low-earth-orbit and medium-earth-orbit systems. NFAP-2025 recognizes 6G as part of the mobile service family alongside 2G through 5G, with multiple bands earmarked for IMT use that can later be assigned to 6G once standards are finalised and auctions are held. It also strengthens spectrum support for In-Flight and Maritime Connectivity, high-capacity backhaul for remote 5G and 6G sites, and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication. By providing a forward-looking framework that balances terrestrial, satellite, broadcasting, defence and scientific uses, NFAP-2025 positions India to benefit from the global harmonisation of spectrum decisions taken at World Radiocommunication Conferences while meeting domestic demand for broadband, digital services and connected technologies.
Department of Telecommunications Releases National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 (NFAP-2025) Effective December 30
The Department of Telecommunications released the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025, effective December 30, covering 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz and identifying the 6425-7125 MHz band for IMT to enable 5G, 6G and satellite broadband services.
Key facts
- NFAP-2025 released by DoT under Ministry of Communications and took effect from December 30, 2025
- Covers allocation of spectrum in 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz range for all radio-communication services
- 6425-7125 MHz band formally identified for IMT enabling 5G, 5G Advanced and future 6G networks
- Ka, Q and V bands allocated for satellite services including GSO and non-GSO constellations
- Strengthens spectrum support for V2X communication, IFMC and high-capacity backhaul
- Aligns India with global spectrum harmonisation decisions of World Radiocommunication Conferences
PYQPrelims/PYQ angle
- RAS 2021 Differences between previous generations of mobile networks and 5G — The PYQ on 5G mobile network generations directly connects to NFAP-2025's formal allocation of the 6425-7125 MHz band enabling 5G and 6G networks in India.
Mains angle
Q: Analyse the key features of the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 and its role in enabling India's 5G, 6G and satellite broadband ecosystem.
Answer (50 words):
The Department of Telecommunications notified NFAP-2025 effective December 30, 2025, covering frequencies from 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz. It formally identifies the 6425-7125 MHz band for IMT enabling 5G and future 6G networks, allocates Ka/Q/V bands for GSO and non-GSO satellites, and strengthens spectrum for in-flight, maritime and V2X communications.
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With reference to the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025 (NFAP-2025) that came into effect on December 30, 2025, consider the following statements:\n1. NFAP-2025 was released by the Department of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Communications.\n2. The plan covers the allocation of radio-frequency spectrum in the range 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz.\n3. The 6425-7125 MHz band has been formally identified for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT).\nWhich of the above statements is/are correct?
All three statements are correct. NFAP-2025 was released by the Department of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Communications and came into effect on December 30, 2025. It covers allocation of radio-frequency spectrum across the 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz range. The 6425-7125 MHz band has been formally identified for IMT, enhancing mid-band spectrum for 5G, 5G Advanced and future 6G networks.
Source: The Tribune
Frequently asked questions
When did NFAP-2025 come into effect?
NFAP-2025 came into effect from December 30, 2025, after being released by the Department of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Communications.
What frequency range does NFAP-2025 cover?
The plan governs the allocation of radio-frequency spectrum in the range 8.3 kHz to 3000 GHz for all radio-communication services.
Which band was identified for International Mobile Telecommunications?
The 6425-7125 MHz band was formally identified for IMT, enhancing mid-band spectrum for 5G, 5G Advanced and future 6G networks.
What bands are allocated for satellite services?
Ka, Q and V bands are allocated for satellite-based services, supporting both geo-stationary and non-geo-stationary orbit satellite constellations.
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