FAQ's
- Q 1. What is the purpose of Digital Connectivity Rating for properties?
The Digital Connectivity Rating is an initiative by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) to assess and benchmark the quality of digital connectivity within properties. The primary objective is to encourage property managers to build digitally connected and future ready smart properties and assess whether properties are equipped with robust digital infrastructure, enhancing user experience for tenants, residents, and businesses.
- Q 2. What is the regulatory framework for the rating system?
Digital Connectivity Rating is governed by the provisions in “Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024” and further follow-up orders or guidelines issued by TRAI.
- Q 3. What parameters are assessed in the rating process?
The rating system evaluates properties based on the rating criteria provided in the regulations. Some of the key aspects assessed under framework include:
i. Availability of Connectivity Options:Access to mobile networks (2G/3G/4G/5G), Wi-Fi, fiber broadband, and private networks.
ii. Indoor Coverage Quality: Signal strength and coverage within the building, including basements, elevators and floors.
iii. Digital Infrastructure Readiness: Deployment of in-building solutions (IBS), distributed antenna systems (DAS), small cells and optical fiber backbones.
iv. Network and power Redundancy: Availability of backup connectivity and power sources to ensure uninterrupted services.
v. Future-Readiness: Scalability and ease of integration with advanced technologies, including 5G and IoT solutions.
- Q 4. Who benefits from this rating system?
i. Property Managers: Gain recognition and competitive advantage by providing high-quality digital infrastructure.
ii. Consumers:Enjoy uninterrupted connectivity for work, entertainment, and communication.
iii. Telecom Service Providers: Identify opportunities for infrastructure upgrades and improved service delivery.
iv. Government Authorities and Regulators: Promote digital connectivity infrastructure and ensure consumer trust and protection. The improved digital connectivity further drives digital economy and business opportunities in the country.
- Q 5. Is the Digital Connectivity Rating mandatory under TRAI regulations?
Currently, the rating system is voluntary. However, TRAI strongly encourages participation by property developers and property owners, and telecom service providers to plan digital connectivity in the real estate sector from its inception and get it rated under TRAI rating framework.
- Q 6. What types of properties are covered under the rating framework?
The rating framework applies to all building types, including:
i. Residential complexes
ii. Office spaces and commercial properties
iii. Malls and retail outlets
iv. Educational institutions
v. Healthcare facilities
vi. Airports
vii. Metro rail
viii. Stadiums and open spaces
- Q 7. What challenges might property managers face in achieving higher ratings?
Building owners may encounter the following challenges:
i. Limited infrastructure for in-building solutions such as DAS or fiber backbone.
ii. High costs are associated with upgrading outdated systems.
iii. Difficulty in integrating services from multiple telecom service providers.
TRAI encourages collaborations between property managers and telecom providers to overcome these barriers.
- Q 8. Are there incentives for properties that achieve higher ratings?
While there are no mandatory financial incentives outlined by TRAI, properties with higher ratings benefit from enhanced marketability, tenant satisfaction, and alignment with smart city goals. Property managers may also see more demand for digital connected buildings.
- Q 9. How can a building apply for the Digital Connectivity Rating?
On applications can be submitted through the process specified in TRAI’s guidelines. Typically, this involves:
i. One time registration on rating platform
ii. Apply for rating of property and provide relevant details
iii. Choose the DCRA of your choice
iv. Submit the application
v. The rating process starts.
- Q 10. Where can I find TRAI’s official guidelines for the rating system?
TRAI’s regulation and orders/guidelines for the Digital Connectivity Rating framework are available on its official website i.e. trai.gov.in
- Q 11. How does this initiative align with India’s telecom policy?
The rating system aligns with the objectives of the National Digital Communications Policy (NDCP), 2018, which emphasizes:
i. Enhancing broadband penetration
ii. Promoting ICT readiness across sectors
iii. Ensuring affordable and reliable digital connectivity
By setting a rating framework for digital connectivity inside properties where more data is used than at street or open areas, TRAI contributes broader goals of creating a digitally inclusive society.
- Q 12. How does the rating process promote innovation in building design?
By encouraging the integration of future-ready digital infrastructure, TRAI’s rating system motivates property managers to adopt innovative solutions, such as:
i. Smart building technologies
ii. Energy-efficient network equipment
iii. Seamless integration of IoT devices and 5G networks
This fosters a more competitive and technology-driven property development.