TRAI issues amended Rating Manual 2026 for assessment of Digital Connectivity

📌 Summary:

• TRAI released the amended Rating Manual 2026 for assessment of Digital Connectivity under the amended Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024 (first notified 25 Oct 2024)
• Aim: tackle poor in-building digital/mobile connectivity through a collaborative, self-sustainable property-rating approach involving the Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA), Property Managers and Service Providers
• Manual revised after a 27 Feb 2026 Consultation Paper; amendment regulations notified 13 May 2026
• Key changes: multi-stage assessment and certification for under-construction properties; optional Digital Connectivity Audit; technology-neutral approach permitting both fibre and wireless backhaul; centralized monitoring beyond conventional Building Management Systems; standardized testing via a TRAI-designated app; defined sampling for non-public areas; alignment with National Building Construction Standards (NBCS) 2026
• Comes into force with immediate effect

🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS2 — role of regulatory and statutory bodies (TRAI); GS3 — digital infrastructure and ease of living

📝 Prelims Facts:

• TRAI is a statutory body established under the TRAI Act, 1997
• Digital Connectivity Rating Regulations were first notified on 25 October 2024
• DCRA = Digital Connectivity Rating Agency

🔑 Key Term: Digital Connectivity Rating — a standardized framework to rate buildings on the quality of in-premises telecom and internet connectivity.