Notice Inviting Comments from Stakeholders on Draft Manual for Assessment of Digital Connectivity under Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024

Annexure-I भारतीय दू रसंचार विवियामक प्राविकरण Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (IS/ISO 9001-2015 Certified Organisation) Draft Manual for Assessment of Digital Connectivity under Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024 1PREFACE The digital technology innovations have fundamentally reshaped modern society, transforming communication, work, and our interaction with the environment. As our reliance on seamless connectivity intensifies, robust and reliable digital infrastructure within properties has transitioned from a desirable amenity to an indispensable utility. This encompasses high- bandwidth internet for remote work, ubiquitous mobile coverage for daily communication, and intelligent building systems that optimize energy efficiency and security through real-time data exchange. However, many existing and newly constructed properties encounter significant obstacles in achieving comprehensive digital connectivity. These challenges stem from factors such as legacy infrastructure, inadequate planning, and a lack of standardized deployment practices, impeding residents and businesses from fully leveraging the advantages of a digitally interconnected world. Recognizing these critical gaps, the TRAI regulations on "Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024." is aimed at providing the rating framework for digital connectivity within buildings or properties. This regulation provides a framework to address these challenges by promoting uniform standards, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and incentivizing the adoption of future- proof technologies. By establishing clear rating framework, these regulations ensure that connectivity infrastructure, including provisions for adequate bandwidth, low latency, and robust signal strength, is integrated as a fundamental component of property development. We encourage all stakeholders viz. policymakers, developers, architects, telecom service providers, and the consumers, to collaborate in realizing this vision, shaping a future where ubiquitous connectivity is a tangible reality for everyone. The regulation aims to foster an ecosystem where Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) is co-created as an integral part of any development activity. This rating manual will serve as a reference to the Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs), property managers, architects, digital infrastructure providers and service providers to plan and implement seamless digital connectivity infrastructure for seamless user experience. 2Table of Contents Abbreviations .................................................................................................................................. 6 1. Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 7 1.1. Overview ............................................................................................................................ 7 1.2. Importance of Digital Connectivity ........................................................................... 7 1.3. Background and Purpose ............................................................................................. 8 1.4. Digital Connectivity Rating Framework.................................................................. 9 1.5. Objectives of the Rating Manual .............................................................................. 10 1.6. Scope of the Rating Manual ....................................................................................... 10 2. Role of Stakeholders ........................................................................................................ 12 2.1. Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) ........................................................ 12 2.2. Property Manager (PM) .............................................................................................. 13 2.3. Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) .......................................................................... 14 2.4. Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Providers (DCIPs) ................................... 14 2.5. Consumers/ End Users ................................................................................................15 3. Registration Process and Rating Lifecycle ................................................................17 3.1. Eligibility Criteria of Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) Registration ................................................................................................................................. 17 3.2. Registration Process of DCRA ................................................................................... 17 3.3. General Obligations for DCRA.................................................................................. 19 3.4. Registration of Property Manager .......................................................................... 19 3.5. General Obligations for Property Manager ......................................................... 19 3.6. Classification of Properties for Rating .................................................................. 20 3.7. Rating Process................................................................................................................ 21 4. Assessment Methodology for Category ‘A’ Properties ......................................... 26 4.1. Compliance to Applicable Model Building Bye Laws (MBBL) and National Building Code (NBC) for Digital Connectivity ................................................................ 29 4.2. Provision in Civil Infrastructure, over and above MBBL and NBC requirements, for Ensuring Robust Digital Connectivity ........................................... 33 4.3. Provision in Power Infrastructure, over and above MBBL or NBC requirements, for Ensuring Reliable Digital Connectivity ......................................... 38 4.4. Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Resilience ................................................... 44 4.5. Future Readiness of Digital Connectivity Infrastructure................................ 49 4.6. Provision of Wired Connectivity Infrastructure ................................................ 53 34.7. Availability of Service Providers .............................................................................. 58 4.8. Service Performance.................................................................................................... 61 4.9. User Experience ............................................................................................................ 68 4.10. Summary of Rating Score....................................................................................... 70 5. Assessment Methodology for Category ‘B’ Properties ......................................... 74 5.1. Provision in Power Infrastructure for Ensuring Reliable Digital Connectivity ................................................................................................................................ 76 5.2. Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Resilience ................................................... 81 5.3. Future Readiness of Digital Connectivity Infrastructure................................ 86 5.4. Provision of Wired Connectivity Infrastructure ................................................ 91 5.5. Availability of Service Providers .............................................................................. 95 5.6. Service Performance.................................................................................................... 99 5.7. User Experience .......................................................................................................... 106 5.8. Summary of Rating Score ........................................................................................ 108 6. Award of Rating and Renewal ..................................................................................... 111 6.1. Classification of Ratings ............................................................................................ 111 6.2. Validity Period of Ratings ......................................................................................... 111 6.3. Reassessment Process ................................................................................................ 112 6.4. Renewal Process........................................................................................................... 113 7. Reporting and Feedback Mechanism ............................................................................ 115 7.1. Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism ................................................................ 115 7.2. Mechanism for Stakeholder Feedback ................................................................. 115 7.3. Addressing Non-Compliance ................................................................................... 116 8. Appeal Process .................................................................................................................. 117 8.1. Filing of Appeal by Property Manager .................................................................. 117 8.2. Review of Appeal by DCRA ....................................................................................... 117 8.3. Escalation of Appeal to the Authority ................................................................... 118 8.4. Examination of Appeal by Authority ..................................................................... 118 9. Review and Updates of Rating Manual ..................................................................... 119 9.1. Process for Periodic Updates ................................................................................... 119 10. Best Practices for Digital Connectivity in Properties ......................................... 120 10.1. Best Practices for Digital Connectivity ............................................................ 120 410.2. Integration of Connectivity Infrastructure in Design and Construction 123 10.3. Collaboration with stakeholders ....................................................................... 123 11. Appendix ............................................................................................................................ 125 11.1. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ...................................................................... 125 11.2. List of Applicable Standards and References .................................................... 128 11.3. Documents Checklist ................................................................................................. 128 11.4. User Feedback Form .............................................................................................. 136 11.5. Template for declaration of maximum chargeable fee by DCRA (As per regulation) .................................................................................................................................137 5Abbreviations Acronyms Description BIS Bureau of Indian Standards BMS Building Management System DAS Distributed Antenna System DCI Digital Connectivity Infrastructure DCIP Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Provider DCRA Digital Connectivity Rating Agency DTH Direct to Home DWDM Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing ICT Information and Communications Technology IoT Internet of Things IBS In Building Solutions IP Infrastructure Provider M2M Machine to Machine Communication MBBL Model Building Bye Laws MOHUA Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs MOS Mean Opinion Score NBC National Building Code NDCP National Digital Communication Policy PM Property Manager PON Passive Optical Network QoE Quality of Experience QoS Quality of Service SON Self-Optimizing Networks TEC Telecom Engineering Center TRAI Telecom Regulatory Authority of India TSP Telecom Service Provider UPS Uninterrupted Power Supply WFA Work From Anywhere WFH Work from Home 61. Introduction 1.1. Overview Internet access serves as a critical enabler, connecting individuals and businesses to governments, markets, and a wide range of economic and social opportunities. Digital services, including e-payments, e-commerce, and e-identification, are revolutionizing business models across sectors such as financial services, healthcare, and education, while also transforming the delivery and consumption of goods throughout the broader economy. Emerging technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have the potential to further accelerate the growth of the digital economy. In emerging markets, digital connectivity has been a significant driver of development over the past two decades, fostering economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction. By expanding markets, improving efficiency in both business and government operations, and driving innovation in traditional sectors, digital technologies are unlocking new opportunities for inclusive development. However, the benefits of digital connectivity cannot be fully realized without universal access to the Internet. Significant progress has been made over the past two decades to increase the reach of telecommunication networks, with 90 percent of the world population covered by a mobile broadband network. 1.2. Importance of Digital Connectivity The development of resilient, world-class infrastructure—physical, social, financial, and digital—forms a cornerstone of India’s strategy to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047. Among these, digital infrastructure has emerged as a critical necessity, often rivaling traditional infrastructure components such as power, water, and transportation. The COVID- 19 pandemic not only reshaped the global order but also accelerated the expansion of digital infrastructure worldwide. Comprising the physical resources and systems required to process and utilize data effectively; digital infrastructure has become essential to societal functioning and quality of life. As nations aim to make their digital systems more resilient, agile, and forward-looking, India, with its vast population and technological potential, is well- positioned to assume a leadership role in shaping the future global digital landscape. The rapid advancement of technologies such as 4G and 5G, coupled with enabling devices and software applications, has profoundly transformed both personal and professional lives while reshaping governance and business models globally. Today, individuals across all age groups increasingly rely on smart devices for activities such as studying, working, and entertainment. The availability of online services, including banking, e-commerce, citizen- centric solutions, and infotainment options like gaming and social networking, hinges on robust digital connectivity. In the modern era, it is almost unimaginable to function without access to these services, emphasizing the critical need for reliable and high-quality digital connectivity. 7India’s digital transformation holds immense promise, with nearly ~944 Mn internet users as of 28th February 2025 and a growing ecosystem of indigenous digital services, platforms, and applications. This digital transformation could unlock significant opportunities for businesses, startups, and innovators to invest in emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and drones tailored to India’s unique needs. However, the rapid adoption of frontier technologies has placed tremendous pressure on existing digital infrastructure. To harness the full potential of initiatives such as Smart Cities and Smart Health, focus on augmenting and modernizing digital infrastructure is essential to sustain this momentum and enable the seamless integration of advanced technologies into its digital infrastructure. 1.3. Background and Purpose The purpose of the rating framework is to establish a standardized framework to assess the availability of digital connectivity infrastructure in different categories of properties and to encourage the stakeholders to improve the telecom network quality of service in properties. The aim is to improve consumer experience, ensure seamless digital connectivity, and promote stakeholder collaboration, making Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) an integral part of property development. The quality of telecommunication services inside the properties is an integral part of protection of consumer interest. To provide legal and regulatory trigger for addressing the issue of accessibility and quality of digital connectivity inside properties, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has submitted recommendations to the Government on “Recommendations on Rating of Buildings or Areas for Digital Connectivity” dated 20th February 2023 and regulation on “Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity,2024” dated 25th October 2024. The recommendations and regulations are aimed at creating an ecosystem for co-creations of Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) as a part of any development activity, be it a Building or an Area The key objectives of regulation on “Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity,2024”, hereunder referred as the regulation, includes: a. To improve consumer experience by ensuring seamless connectivity inside properties b. To standardize and promote high-quality digital connectivity in residential, commercial, and public properties c. To provide a standardized rating system to evaluate properties for their digital infrastructure and service readiness d. To provide prospective tenants, owners, and businesses with transparent measure of quality of property’s digital connectivity e. To encourage coordination between property managers, Service Providers, DCIPs to implement connectivity standards. 8The regulation is applicable for: i. Property managers who intend to get their property, of minimum specified size, rated for digital connectivity, either voluntarily or under the provisions of applicable laws, rules or regulations ii. Digital connectivity rating agencies (DCRA), who may evaluate and award ratings for property under these regulations; and iii. Service providers, who may enter an arrangement with the property manager for development or access of digital connectivity or digital connectivity infrastructure. 1.4. Digital Connectivity Rating Framework The regulation provides a standardized method to evaluate digital connectivity inside properties. The ratings, provided under the rating framework under the regulation, will enable stakeholders to make informed choices while promoting the development of robust digital infrastructure. The key aspects of rating framework include: i. Standardized Process The framework establishes a uniform methodology to assess the digital connectivity of properties and areas across various categories, ensuring comparability and reliability. Properties shall be evaluated based on defined parameters in the regulation such as fiber readiness, mobile network availability, in-building solutions and Wi-Fi infrastructure. Different property types (commercial, residential, industrial, public spaces, hospitals, government offices, transport corridors and many more) may have tailored benchmarks to ensure relevant and fair assessments. ii. Consistent Quality and Coverage Integrating Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) at an early stage in property development ensures that digital services are of high quality, reducing connectivity gaps and enhancing user experience. The framework promotes the inclusion of diverse connectivity options, such as fiber optic networks, Wi-Fi, cellular connectivity and satellite broadband, to enhance resilience Properties will be assessed based on their capability to provide seamless indoor and outdoor network coverage, including provisions for small cells, DAS (Distributed Antenna Systems) and Wi-Fi network. iii. Consumer Empowerment A structured rating system enables consumers and stakeholders to make informed decisions based on digital connectivity performance, driving competitive improvements. 9a. Informed decision-making: Prospective tenants and buyers can compare properties based on their connectivity rating, ensuring they choose locations with the best digital infrastructure. b. Market differentiation: Property managers and consumers are incentivized to enhance their digital infrastructure to achieve higher ratings, improving property value and marketability. c. Future readiness: Encourages property managers to adopt emerging technologies to future-proof their properties. 1.5. Objectives of the Rating Manual The Rating Manual serves as a structured framework designed to ensure a fair, transparent, and standardized approach to assessing digital connectivity under the provisions of the regulation. 1.6. Scope of the Rating Manual The Rating Manual outlines the detailed methodology to be followed by the stakeholders for assessment of digital connectivity in different categories of properties as per the assessment criteria provided in the "Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024". This document provides a comprehensive guide for all stakeholders involved in implementation and assessment of digital connectivity in properties and areas, including Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA), Property Manager (PM), and Service Providers. Key aspects of the manual include a detailed description of the overall rating process for digital connectivity. This process encompasses the registration procedures for DCRAs and property managers. It also specifies the evaluation methodology tailored for distinct property classifications provided in the regulation i.e. Category A properties and Category B properties. The manual also elaborates on the processes for the award and renewal of ratings. Additionally, it sets forth provisions for a reporting and feedback mechanism, empowering stakeholders to provide input for maintaining and improving the rating framework. Processes for dispute resolution are also detailed, offering structured processes to address and resolve conflicts among stakeholders effectively. Recognizing the dynamic nature of digital connectivity needs, the manual provides a protocol for the periodic review and updates of the rating manual. This ensures that the manual remains relevant in addressing technological advancements, changing user expectations, and emerging challenges. The manual also includes a section dedicated to guidelines and best practices to be adhered to by property managers and DCRAs, fostering consistency and quality in the implementation of digital connectivity standards. This rating manual provides processes and methodology for assessment of digital connectivity under the "Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024". In case of any discrepancy or interpretation, the provision of the regulations shall prevail. 10112. Role of Stakeholders The following subsections provide an overview of roles of key stakeholders within the ecosystem including the digital connectivity rating agency, property manager, telecom service provider, and digital connectivity infrastructure provider. 2.1. Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) DCRAs play a critical role in evaluating and certifying the quality, reliability, and readiness of digital connectivity in the properties. The responsibilities of DCRA, as per the regulations, include: i. Evaluation of property for digital connectivity: Conduct thorough assessments of the digital connectivity in properties including fiber-optic availability, mobile network coverage, Wi-Fi accessibility, and broadband reliability and use established criteria to evaluate the digital connectivity. ii. Issuance of ratings: Assign objective and transparent ratings based on the evaluation results, providing property managers and stakeholders with a clear indication of connectivity infrastructure and service performance. Generate official rating certificates that property managers can use to demonstrate their digital connectivity standards to tenants, investors, and businesses. DCRA ensures that ratings reflect real-world digital connectivity experiences, helping end-users make informed decisions about properties based on their digital connectivity requirements and available performance. iii. Feedback and recommendations: Provide constructive feedback to property managers on areas for improvement in their digital connectivity infrastructure or services and indicate best practices and enhancements to help property managers achieve higher ratings. iv. Collaboration with stakeholders: Work closely with property managers, service providers and infrastructure providers to gather necessary data for evaluations and maintain communication with TRAI to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. v. Continuous improvement: Stay updated on technological advancements and regulatory changes to refine evaluation criteria and participate in training and workshops to enhance evaluation methodologies. Participate in training programs, workshops, and knowledge-sharing initiatives to enhance evaluation methodologies and improve accuracy in assessments. 12vi. Reporting: Maintain comprehensive records of all evaluations conducted, ratings issued, and feedback provided to property managers for different properties. Submit periodic reports and trend analyses to TRAI, highlighting industry-wide connectivity performance, key challenges, and areas needing regulatory attention. vii. Compliance with Regulations: All the DCRA activities shall be within the framework of the regulations and directions or orders or guidelines issued from time to time by the Authority. 2.2. Property Manager (PM) As defined in the regulations, the “Property Manager” means the person who is either the owner of the property to be rated for digital connectivity or has any legal right to control or manage the property. The Property Manager plays a key role in facilitating digital connectivity assessments, coordinating with relevant authorities, and implementing improvements to enhance user experience and maintain compliance with regulatory standards. Property Managers are responsible for overseeing the management and maintenance of properties, including ensuring adequate digital connectivity. The responsibilities of Property Manager, under the regulations, inter-alia, include: i. Application for ratings: a. Submit applications for digital connectivity ratings through the rating portal and provide accurate and comprehensive information about the property’s digital connectivity. b. Provide accurate and comprehensive information regarding the property’s existing digital connectivity infrastructure, including network coverage, fiber availability, and telecom service provider details. c. Ensure that all submitted data is up to date and reflects the actual service available on the property. ii. Documentation and compliance: a. Prepare and upload the necessary documentation required for the evaluation process and ensure ongoing compliance with standards set by DCRAs and TRAI. b. Keep track of changes in compliance requirements and implement necessary updates to avoid penalties or service disruptions. iii. Maintenance of digital connectivity infrastructure: a. Regularly inspect and maintain the digital connectivity infrastructure to ensure optimal performance and address any connectivity issues promptly to maintain service quality. b. Address connectivity issues proactively by working with telecom service providers and technical support teams. 13c. Ensure proper maintenance and upgrades of network equipment to optimize performance and provide a seamless digital experience for occupants and tenants. iv. Collaboration with DCRAs: a. Facilitate the evaluation and rating process by providing Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs) with necessary access to the property. b. Work closely with evaluators to share technical data, network reports, and other relevant details needed for the rating assessment. c. Implement recommendations and best practices suggested by DCRAs to enhance the property's digital connectivity rating. v. Customer communication and tenant engagement: a. Act as the primary point of contact for tenants and occupants regarding digital connectivity services within the property. b. Address concerns or complaints related to network performance and ensure that users are informed about available connectivity solutions and upgrades. Educate tenants on digital connectivity features available in the property and promote initiatives aimed at improving network access and reliability. 2.3. Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) TSPs are entities responsible for delivering a wide range of telecommunications and digital services, including mobile and fixed-line communication, internet access, and broadband services. They serve as the backbone of digital connectivity, ensuring seamless and reliable communication for end-users. Their role is critical in maintaining and improving the overall quality of digital services, directly impacting the user experience and the effectiveness of digital infrastructure. The TSPs are encouraged to collaborate with the property managers and DCIPs for extending and maintenance of digital connectivity in the properties. 2.4. Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Providers (DCIPs) Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Providers are entities that develop and maintain the digital infrastructure as per their authorization. This includes network equipment, cabling, and other technological frameworks. Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Providers (DCIPs) are key enablers in the telecommunication and digital ecosystem, responsible for developing, deploying, and maintaining the physical and digital infrastructure that supports seamless digital connectivity services. Their role is vital in ensuring high-speed, reliable, and future-ready network infrastructure that caters to the growing demands of consumers, businesses, and service providers. 14The responsibilities of DCIP are as follows: i. Infrastructure development: Design, build, and maintain the digital communication infrastructure necessary for reliable connectivity and ensure that the infrastructure meets the technical specifications required for high-speed digital services. ii. Compliance with standards: Ensure that all infrastructure complies with standards set by regulatory bodies and industry best practices and regularly update infrastructure to keep up with technological advancements and regulatory changes. iii. Maintenance and upgrades: Conduct regular maintenance of infrastructure to ensure optimal performance, plan and execute upgrades to enhance capacity and meet evolving demands for digital services. iv. Customer collaboration: Work closely with Telecom Service Providers to ensure that the infrastructure meets their service delivery needs and address any issues related to infrastructure that may impact service quality. v. Feedback mechanism: Participate in feedback mechanisms to improve infrastructure quality based on ratings and assessments from DCRAs and implement necessary changes based on feedback to enhance the overall connectivity experience. 2.5. Consumers/ End Users The consumer or end-user is the primary stakeholder in the broader ecosystem for assessing and rating digital connectivity in properties or specific geographical areas. Their role is pivotal, as the quality and reliability of connectivity directly impact their daily digital interactions, productivity, and overall satisfaction. The fundamental objective of implementing a rating system is to enhance the quality of service and thereby experience (QoE) for consumers by identifying gaps in connectivity and encouraging improvements in digital infrastructure. To achieve this, user feedback and real- world end-user experiences must be integral components of the rating framework, ensuring that assessments reflect actual usability. The quality of user experience can be measured objectively through various technical key performance indicators (KPIs). These include parameters such as network latency, download and upload speeds, signal strength, coverage consistency, etc. These metrics collectively define the Quality of Experience (QoE) from a technical standpoint and provide quantifiable data to assess digital connectivity standards. On the other hand, subjective evaluation of QoE involves gathering consumer perceptions through structured methods such as end-user surveys, real-time feedback mechanisms, and 15digital reporting platforms. This qualitative input helps capture aspects of user experience that may not be fully reflected in technical measurements, such as service reliability, ease of connectivity, and user satisfaction with network performance. By combining both objective technical assessments and subjective user feedback, the rating framework can provide a holistic evaluation of digital connectivity in properties and areas, ultimately driving improvements that align with consumer expectations and technological advancements. 163. Registration Process and Rating Lifecycle The rating lifecycle begins with the registration of the Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) and property managers, ensuring adherence to established terms and conditions. Following this, properties are mapped to the categories provided in the regulations for the assessment process. The assessment phase involves a comprehensive review of the digital connectivity infrastructure and services in the properties against set benchmarks, verifying compliance with regulatory and operational standards. Only after completing the evaluation steps, the final rating is awarded providing a transparent and standardized measure of digital connectivity. 3.1. Eligibility Criteria of Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) Registration An entity shall be eligible for registration as a Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) under regulation if it meets the criteria outlined in (Section III – "Registration of Digital Connectivity Rating Agency" of the Regulation on Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity). The eligible entities may apply for registration as DCRA as per the guidelines issued by the Authority from time to time. 3.2. Registration Process of DCRA The registration process for Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRA) is outlined under Section III – "Registration of Digital Connectivity Rating Agency" in the Regulation on Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity,2024 as amended from time to time. The process ensures that only eligible and competent entities can participate in property rating activities. The registration process, as provided in the regulations, is summarized below: i. Any entity fulfilling the eligibility criteria under regulation and intending to commence activity as DCRA under the regulations, shall make an application to the Authority for grant of registration on the rating platform in the manner and format, and upon payment of such fee, as may be specified by the Authority ii. An application for registration, which is not complete in all respects or does not conform to the eligibility criteria specified under regulation or the instructions specified by the Authority from time to time, shall be rejected: Provided that before rejecting any such application, the applicant shall be given an opportunity to rectify the deficiency, if any, within thirty days from the date of receipt of communication from the Authority; 17Provided further that the Authority may, for sufficient reasons, extend the time for rectification of the deficiency by such time as it may be considered appropriate, but such extended time shall not exceed thirty days. iii. The Authority may, if it so desires, ask the applicant to appear before it, in person, in connection with the grant of registration. 3.2.1 Grant of Registration and Listing on Rating Platform The registration and listing process of DCRA on the rating platform is provided in regulation (6) as summarized below: i. Eligible applicants meeting the eligibility criteria under regulation will be granted registration on the rating platform for a period of five years. However, the registration granted under sub-regulation shall be subject to payment of such fees and such terms and conditions, as may be specified by the Authority from time to time, by order or direction. ii. The registration granted under sub-regulations shall be valid for the specified period unless it is suspended or cancelled by the Authority as per provisions of these regulations, or upon approval of the request of DCRA for withdrawal of its registration by the Authority. iii. Such registration shall not confer any right upon the DCRA for assignment of work for rating of property. iv. The Authority may, upon the request of DCRA and on being satisfied with its performance, subject to the DCRA meeting the eligibility criteria, renew the registration of DCRA for another five years. v. However, in case of non-renewal of its registration by the Authority, DCRA shall continue to discharge its obligations under the regulations for the remaining validity period of its registration. vi. If the applicant or DCRA submits information which is found to be false or misleading at any stage, either prior to the registration or during the validity of the registration, the Authority shall, without prejudice to its rights under any law, Act or regulations, reject the application for registration or cancel or suspend the registration of DCRA. However, no order for cancellation or suspension of registration shall be made by the Authority unless DCRA has been given a reasonable opportunity of representing against such cancellation or suspension by the Authority. 183.2.2 Conditions of Registration for DCRA The registration of DCRA shall be subject to the conditions prescribed under (Section III – "Registration of Digital Connectivity Rating Agency" of the Regulation on Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity). 3.3. General Obligations for DCRA DCRA is required to follow a set of terms and conditions prescribed under Section – IV “General Obligations of DCRA” of “Regulation on Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity”. These terms ensure transparency, accountability, and compliance in the rating process and cover the following aspects: i. Code of Conduct. ii. Disclosure of fees and other terms and conditions to the property manager. iii. Evaluation and award of ratings. iv. Monitoring of ratings. v. Retention of records and audit of DCRA. 3.4. Registration of Property Manager The registration of a Property Manager on the rating platform is an important step in ensuring that only eligible and authorized individuals or entities can apply for property ratings related to digital connectivity. This process is governed by the regulation under Section V – General Obligations of Property Manager. The process for registration is summarized below: i. Any property manager, who intends to apply for a rating of their property for digital connectivity under these regulations, shall register himself on the rating platform, in such manner and format and upon payment of such fees, as may be specified by the Authority. ii. No property manager, who is not registered on the rating platform, shall be eligible to apply for the rating of property being used, controlled or managed by him, in accordance with the provisions of these regulations. iii. If the property manager submits any false or misleading information, undertaking, declaration or documents under this regulation, it shall amount to the contravention of the provisions of the regulations and the authority may take action as per applicable laws, Act or regulations. iv. The fees for rating of property shall be mutually decided by DCRA and the property manager as provided under regulation. 3.5. General Obligations for Property Manager The general obligations of a Property Manager are provided in Section V – General Obligations of Property Manager. These obligations broadly cover the following aspects: i. Facilitation and co-operation during rating process and inspection. ii. Compliance of terms and conditions of rating certificate. 19iii. Compliance to approved DCI design. iv. Repair and maintenance of DCI. v. Renewal of ratings. vi. No exclusive arrangement with the service providers. vii. Fair use of ratings. viii. Change of property manager or ownership and continuity of DCI. 3.6. Classification of Properties for Rating The classification of properties for the purpose of rating is one of the key aspects of the regulations. It provides a structured framework to assess and categorize properties based on their digital connectivity and ensure a standardized rating system for different types of properties. The classification considers property type, usage, digital infrastructure availability, and the expected connectivity demand to create a fair and transparent rating mechanism. Below is the detailed classification of properties as provided in Section II of the regulation: Category S. No. Classification or Type of Property Group Apartments, independent houses, gated 1. Residential A communities or societies, etc. All properties of the Central Government, the Government State Government, Courts, Public Sector 2. A Properties Undertakings, Local Bodies, Heritage Sites, etc. Commercial office complex, shopping malls, Commercial 3. A industrial estates, SEZs, multi-modal logistic Establishments parks, convention centres, etc. Airport, Bus Station, Railway Station, Other private 4. B Hospitals, Hotels, Educational Institutions, or public areas etc. Stadiums or Sport Arenas or Stadiums or permanent spaces of gathering 5. spaces of B with seating capacity of more than 5000 frequent persons gathering 20Category S. No. Classification or Type of Property Group Transport 6. B Expressways, Highways, Railways routes, etc. corridors Table 3.1: Classification of Properties for Rating of digital connectivity Category A: includes properties that require consistent, high-quality connectivity for daily operations and business activities. Category B: includes high-footfall areas and event spaces that require scalable connectivity solutions based on demand. 3.7. Rating Process The rating process for digital connectivity in properties follows a structured, multi-stage evaluation approach to ensure transparency, consistency, and reliability in assessing a property’s digital capabilities. This framework is designed to evaluate service quality, infrastructure readiness, and user experience, ultimately assigning a rating that reflects the property’s ability to support digital connectivity efficiently. The following steps outline the rating lifecycle and role of DCRA and Property Manager: i. Online Registration by DCRA and Property Managers: As already outlined in Section 3.2 and Section 3.4 of this manual, the interested DCRA and Property Managers need to register on the online rating platform. A one-time and non- refundable registration fee, as prescribed by the Authority, must be paid by the property manager at the time of registration. The registration enables Property Managers to apply for a rating assessment of their properties. The property manager may also apply for the rating of under construction properties to enable assessment and guidance by DCRA on implementation of DCI in line with the provision. However, the rating certificate shall be issued after provisioning DCI as per the requirement of the regulation for rating criteria. ii. Submission of Documents: a. Property Managers seeking a new rating or renewal of an existing rating for the property shall submit an online application along with the prescribed supporting documents. b. A document checklist, including for fully constructed and under construction properties, will be available in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section on the rating portal. 21c. Once application for rating is submitted by the property manager, the system will generate a Unique Request Identification Number (URIN) for tracking the application status. d. The Property Manager can select any of the registered DCRA from the list provided on the rating platform. e. The details of the maximum chargeable fee (MCF), to be charged by different DCRAs, will be available on the portal. f. Online application of the Property Manager will be automatically assigned to the Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) selected during the submission of application for rating. iii. Due-Diligence Stage I: a. The selected DCRA shall conduct Stage I of due diligence to assess basic requirements for assessing the digital connectivity status of the property based on the submitted documents. b. This stage of assessment must be completed in a time bound manner within 30 days from the date of assignment of the property to the DCRA. c. If additional details or clarifications are required, the DCRA will notify the Property Manager to complete the application through the rating platform. d. The Property Manager should provide relevant inputs to the DCRA within 7 days of the request by the DCRA failing which the delay will be attributed to the property manager and not to the DCRA. e. All the requests and responses for seeking the inputs or clarifications shall be made through the rating platform. f. The DCRA will visit the site, at suitable stage(s) of construction, in case the site is under development or construction to assess whether the DCI is in line with the approved design. The DCRA will provide its inputs to the property manager for construction of DCI aligned with requirements of rating criteria as far as possible. 22iv. Preliminary evaluation comments and action points: The DCRA shall share their comments with action items, if any, to the Property Manager concerned through the rating platform. The actions points shall be classified broadly in three categories as follows: a. Mandatory: These action points will only include the actions required by Property Manager without which the evaluation process cannot proceed to next stage. b. Recommended: These action items will include those points which may affect the rating score and consequently the rating of the property. The Property Manager may choose to ignore these comments and may confirm proceeding for the next stage of evaluation. c. Optional: This category of action items will include suggestive actions to be taken by the Property Manager which does not affect the score and rating of the property. However, such actions may further improve quality of service and consumer experience. v. Corrective action by property manager: a. In response to the action points arising out of ‘Preliminary evaluation’, the Property Manager shall take remedial actions on mandatory points to proceed for second stage of evaluation. b. After all the ‘Mandatory’ action points are complied, the Property Manager can apply for second stage of evaluation i.e., Due-Diligence Stage-II. However, the property managers are encouraged to consider action on recommended and optional inputs from DCRA to get the best possible score for their property. vi. Due-Diligence Stage II: a. The request for initiation of Due Diligence stage-II shall commence upon the request of the property manager after the action has been completed on at least ‘Mandatory’ action points or preferable other recommended and optional points. b. The Due Diligence stage-II will involve the process of onsite verification of digital connectivity and associated infrastructure by the DCRA against the prescribed rating criteria including as provided in supporting documents. c. The detailed methodology for scoring against each criterion and sub-criteria and respective weightage are provided in Chapter-4 of this manual. 23d. The Due Diligence Stage-II will be completed by the DCRA in a time-bound manner preferable within 60 days of submission of request by the Property Manager for Due Diligence-II evaluation. e. The Due Diligence stage-II for under construction will commence on completion of DCI construction, testing and integration. vii. Final Evaluation by DCRA: a. After the completion of Due Diligence stage - II, the DCRA shall consolidate all the relevant details and prepare a comprehensive assessment report. The assessment report shall cover the list of all documents collected; the summary criteria and sub-criteria wise comments, documents, score awarded, and list of test/evidence collected during the assessment. b. The objective of each sub-criteria, methodology of assessment and scoring criteria against each criterion and sub-criteria are provided in Chapter 4 for properties of category ‘A and Chapter 5 for properties of category ‘B”. c. In the end, the assessment report will provide the score card for the property against each criteria and sub-criteria. d. A copy of assessment report with URIN and property details shall be uploaded against respective property. The assessment report will be digitally signed by the authorized representative of the DCRA. This report will also be visible to the property manager concerned. e. The DCRA shall also update the score against each criterion and sub-criteria on rating platform to generate the rating certificate. viii. Award of Rating: a. After the rating score is updated in the rating portal, the DCRA shall generate a rating certificate and sign it digitally. b. The Property Manager will be able to download the rating certificate through their registered account on the rating portal against respective property till its validity. Once the rating certificate is issued by DCRA, it will be available for the public to view or verify the rating certificates either through unique certificate number or 24QR code available on the certificate or other search and filter criteria as may be provided on the rating platform. Figure 3.1: High Level Rating Workflow 254. Assessment Methodology for Category ‘A’ Properties The regulation 24 under Section – VII “Rating criteria and process for evaluation of digital connectivity and award of ratings” of the Regulation provides criteria, weightage and high-level sub-criteria against each main criterion for category ‘A’ properties as indicated in column [a], [b] and [c] respectively in Table 4.1. To enable uniform and objective assessment against each sub-criteria, the sub-criteria weightage shall be as provided in column [d]. The sub-criteria weightage has been arrived factoring their relative importance for assessment of digital connectivity and associated infrastructure. Sub S. No. Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria (as per No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage regulation) [d] Compliance to applicable 4.1.1 Approved 2.5 Model DCI design Building Bye Laws (MBBL) 4.1 1 5 and National 4.1.2 DCI Building Code implementation 2.5 (NBC) for as per approved digital DCI design connectivity 4.2.1 Provision for expansion of Provision in telecom rooms 2 civil and cable infrastructure, pathways over and 4.2.2 Provision for above MBBL expansion of 4.2 2 5 and NBC mobile and 2 requirements, wireline for ensuring connectivity robust digital 4.2.3 Ease of connectivity access of DCI 1 installed for repair or maintenance Provision in 4.3.1 Redundancy 4.3 3 5 1 power of power source 26Sub S. No. Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria (as per No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage regulation) [d] infrastructure, 4.3.2 UPS power 2 over and backup for DCI above MBBL 4.3.3 Power or NBC continuity 1 requirements, monitoring for ensuring 4.3.4 Building reliable digital Management 1 connectivity System 4.4.1 Availability of alternate entry paths for digital 3 connectivity infrastructure Digital 4.4.2 Non- Connectivity flooding measures 4.4 10 3 4 Infrastructure for DCI Resilience installation 4.4.3 Implementation of redundancy in 4 power source and DCI paths 4.5.1 Availability of the latest generation of 4 Future mobile Readiness of connectivity 4.5 5 Digital 10 4.5.2 Support for Connectivity 3 future bands Infrastructure 4.5.3 Upgradability of 3 wireline DCI Provision of 4.6.1 Backhaul Wired fiber connectivity 4.6 6 20 10 Connectivity (service provider infrastructure to property) 27Sub S. No. Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria (as per No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage regulation) [d] 4.6.2 Fiber connectivity till 5 user premises 4.6.3 Fiber connectivity in each room or 5 office or commercial space 4.7.1 Number of wireline Internet Service providers having 7.5 integration with Digital Connectivity Availability of Infrastructure 4.7 7 Service 15 4.7.2 Number of Providers Mobile Service providers having coverage or 7.5 integration with Digital Connectivity Infrastructure 4.8.1 Mobile network coverage and performance 5 in public areas of property Service 4.8 8 25 Performance 4.8.2 Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage 5 and performance in public areas of property 28Sub S. No. Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria (as per No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage regulation) [d] 4.8.3 Mobile network coverage and performance 5 in non-public areas 4.8.4 Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage 5 and performance in non-public areas 4.8.5 Average download speed of different wireline 5 network(s) in respective highest speed plan 4.9.1 User feedback on User 4.9 9 5 digital 5 Experience connectivity experience Table 4.1: Weightage for different sub-criteria for category ‘A’ properties The Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) shall assess the digital connectivity and associated infrastructure as per provisions of the Regulations. The detailed assessment methodology against each sub-criterion is provided in the following sections. The DCRA shall scrupulously follow the assessment methodology and collect the artifacts, evidence or test results as prescribed against respective sub-criteria under each main criterion. The required supporting documents shall be preserved by the DCRA or uploaded to the rating platform as per the requirement of the regulations, guidelines or rating manual issued or amended from time to time. 4.1. Compliance to Applicable Model Building Bye Laws (MBBL) and National Building Code (NBC) for Digital Connectivity (Weightage: 5) 29This criterion evaluates whether a property adheres to the relevant provisions of Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL) and the National Building Code (NBC) of India in terms of digital connectivity infrastructure. Compliance with these provisions ensures that properties are designed and constructed with structured telecom infrastructure, safety standards, and future-readiness for advanced digital services. 4.1.1. Sub-Criteria: Approved Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) design (Weightage – 2.5) i. Objective: The primary goal of this sub-criterion is to evaluate whether the digital connectivity infrastructure (DCI) for a property has been planned and approved in compliance with the applicable Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL) and National Building Code (NBC) regulations. Ensuring adherence to these standards is crucial for: a. Establishing a strong foundation for seamless digital connectivity. b. Future-proofing readiness of the property by integrating provisions for advanced communication technologies. c. Enhancing digital accessibility and reliability for residents, businesses, and service providers. ii. Assessment Methodology The assessment of the approved DCI design will be conducted based on document verification, compliance checks, and certification validation. The key evaluation steps are: a. Availability of Approved DCI or ICT Infrastructure Design Documents: 1. Confirm whether the property manager has obtained formal approval for the DCI blueprint. 2. Evaluate that the design considers all necessary elements of DCI as per applicable bye-laws or NBC. b. Supporting documents: 1. The architectural drawings for digital connectivity or ICT infrastructure 2. The documents should be duly stamped and certified by the competent authority. c. Document Review: 1. Verify whether the submitted design aligns with the relevant sections of MBBL and NBC. 302. Evaluate if the design accommodates evolving digital connectivity needs, such as provisions for horizontal and vertical pathways, entry points, telecom rooms, HVAC (Heat ventilation air conditioning) in telecom room etc. as per NBC. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Deviation Record maintenance from Type of S. requirement Item description MBBL or deviations No. (Upload/ DCRA NBC (if any) level) (Yes/ No) Approved DCI design 1. documents by Record and Upload competent authority Design drawings 2. certified by competent Record authority Design compliance 3. with MBBL and NBC Record standards Table 4.2: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement 1. 2.5 On compliance to MBBL and NBC If there is minor deviation in design from MBBL or NBC. Minor deviations shall be those deviations 2. 2 which do not impact future readiness and provision of digital connectivity If there is any major deviation in design from MBBL or NBC. Major deviation shall be those 3. 0.5 deviations in the design which are likely to impact future readiness and provisioning of digital connectivity Table 4.3: Scoring criteria 31Note: (i) In case MBBL is not notified by the concerned State/ UT, the provisions of MBBL issued by Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) shall apply for assessment against this criterion. (ii) The DCRA shall record the explicit deviations, if any, in its assessment report. 4.1.2. Sub-Criteria: DCI implementation as per approved DCI design (Weightage – 2.5) i. Objective: The purpose of this assessment is to ensure that the Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) at the property site has been implemented in strict accordance with the approved DCI design. This verification is carried out in compliance with the Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL) and National Building Code (NBC) requirements to ensure standardization, quality, and maintainability of digital infrastructure deployment. ii. Assessment Methodology The assessment process is divided into three key components: Physical Inspection, Supporting Documents, and Documentation Review to ensure a thorough assessment. a. Physical Inspection: 1. During physical verification, the DCRA shall verify the availability of DCI as per the approved design under sub-criteria 4.1.1. 2. The compliance and deviations, if any, shall be specifically recorded with supporting evidence. b. Supporting Documents: 1. Photographs of installed key DCI infrastructure. 2. Site inspection reports for DCI with design vs implementation comparisons. 3. Testing and Commissioning certificates for DCI as applicable. c. Documentation Review: 1. Verify the as-build documents and confirm it is as per the approved design. 2. Validate the veracity of as-build DCI implementation with testing and commissioning certificates for different DCI components. 3. Record observations in the onsite visit report. 32iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Deviation Record from Type of maintenance S. Item description MBBL or deviations requirement No. NBC (if any) (Upload/ DCRA (Yes/ No) level) As-build DCI is as per 1. Record and upload approved design 2. Photographs of DCI Record and upload Site inspection reports for 3. DCI with design Record comparisons Testing and 4. Commissioning certificates Record for DCI as applicable Table 4.4: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. On compliance with the implementation of DCI or ICT 1. 2.5 infrastructure If there is minor deviation in implementation of DCI or ICT infrastructure. Minor deviations shall be those deviations 2. 2 which do not impact future readiness and provision of digital connectivity. If there is any major deviation in implementation of DCI or ICT infrastructure. Major deviation shall be those deviations 3. 0.5 in the design which are likely to impact future readiness and provisioning of digital connectivity. Table 4.5: Scoring criteria 4.2. Provision in Civil Infrastructure, over and above MBBL and NBC requirements, for Ensuring Robust Digital Connectivity (Weightage: 5) 33This criterion evaluates the extent to which a property goes beyond the mandatory requirements set by the Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL) and National Building Code (NBC) to enhance its digital connectivity infrastructure. 4.2.1. Sub-Criteria: Provision for expansion of telecom rooms and cable pathways (Weightage - 2) i. Objective: To assess the civil infrastructure provisions, over and above MBBL or NBC requirements, for supporting DCI maintenance and future upgradation. Such provisions may include the capacity for expanding telecom rooms, cable pathways, ducts etc. to support increasing telecom and digital infrastructure needs over time. ii. Assessment Methodology a. Site Inspection: The Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) will conduct physical inspections to assess: 1. The availability and scalability of such civil infrastructure beyond the requirement of NBC. 2. Upgradability and maintainability of DCI to support future digital infrastructure needs. Here maintainability shall mean the ease of installation, repair and replacement of digital connectivity infrastructure by the property manager or the service provider, as applicable. b. Supporting documents: The DCRA will review building layout plans to verify: 1. The allocation of space for telecom rooms, ducts, and cable pathways. 2. Whether these provisions exceed the standard requirements of NBC or MBBL. c. Documentation Review: 1. Validate the building layout plans and mark the specific civil infrastructure considered as being provisioned beyond requirements of NBC or MBBL. 2. Prepare or review the assessment report (if already available with property manager) on upgradability and maintainability of the civil infrastructure to support future digital infrastructure needs. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 34Record maintenance S. Compliance requirement Item description No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Building layout plans for DCI or ICT infrastructure duly 1. Record and upload marked and signed by DCRA and property manager Expansion feasibility reports 2. – DCI or ICT infrastructure Record pathways and telecom rooms Table 4.6: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If key civil infrastructure like telecom rooms, ducts for alternate telecom cable entry points, horizontal and 1. 2 vertical pathways etc. is upgradable and maintainable to support future digital infrastructure needs of fixed and wireless service providers If there are minor bottlenecks in above referred civil 2. 1.5 infrastructure. Minor bottlenecks shall be those which do not impact future upgradability of digital connectivity. If there is any major bottleneck in future upgradability of 3. 0.5 telecom infrastructure. Table 4.7: Scoring criteria 4.2.2. Sub-Criteria: Provision for expansion of mobile and wireline connectivity (Weightage – 2) i. Objective: To assess the availability of civil infrastructure like DCI space, pathways, and provisions to allow for the expansion of both mobile (e.g., 5G/6G) and wireline connectivity (e.g., fiber-optic cables, Television, camera etc.) inside the property as technology evolves. 35ii. Assessment Methodology a. Physical Verification of Expansion Conduits: 1. Inspect the telecom room, ducts, risers, and pathways to assess if sufficient space is available for future mobile and wireline deployments. 2. Inspect the space earmarked for installation of mobile base station(s), distributed antenna system, Wi-Fi infrastructure, Direct to Home (DTH) system etc. to extend coverage inside the property including lifts and basements. b. Technology Readiness: Evaluate whether the current civil infrastructure design supports emerging technologies such as 5G, Internet of Things (IoT, Machine to Machine Communication (M2M) and high-capacity fiber networks. c. Supporting Documents: 1. Layout diagrams for existing civil infrastructure for DCI. 2. Layout indicating provisions for future expansion. d. Documentation Review: Verify the updated network diagrams and future expansion plans during the physical verification and site inspection. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) 1. Updated network diagrams Record 2. Future expansion plans Record Table 4.8: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: 36S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If civil infrastructure or space provision and pathways are available and space is earmarked to support installation of 1. 2 Mobile base station(s), Distributed Antenna System (DAS), Wi-Fi, Wireline infrastructure and Direct to Home (DTH) system etc. If space provision and pathways exist for at least Mobile base 2. 1.5 station, DAS and Wireline infrastructure If space provision and pathways exist for at least Wi-Fi or 3. 1 Wireline infrastructure Table 4.9: Scoring criteria 4.2.3. Sub-Criteria: Ease of access of DCI installed for repair or maintenance (Weightage – 1) i. Objective: Properly planned access areas for DCI are essential to ensure ease of maintenance and repair of digital connectivity infrastructure. This reduces downtime and service interruptions. These sub-criteria intend to evaluate the ease of maintenance of DCI which is supported by the provisioned civil infrastructure. The equipment, cables, pathways, ducts should be easily accessible for smooth repair and maintenance of DCI by respective service providers. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Physical Accessibility: Conduct on-site assessments to check the physical accessibility of pathways, telecom rooms, cable ducts and equipment points. b. Labeling and Marking Verification: Verify all DCI equipment, pathways, cable ducts etc. are clearly labeled and marked. c. Supporting documents 1. Site photos showing maintenance pathways. 2. As-build documentation. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 37Record maintenance Compliance S. No. Item description requirement (Upload/ (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Site photos showing 1. maintenance Record pathways Maintenance 2. Record checklists Table 4.10: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If physical accessibility of pathways, telecom 1. 0.5 rooms, cable ducts and equipment is available for DCI. If labelling of pathways, telecom rooms, cable ducts 2. 0.5 and equipment is available for DCI. Table 4.11: Scoring criteria 4.3. Provision in Power Infrastructure, over and above MBBL or NBC requirements, for Ensuring Reliable Digital Connectivity (Weightage - 5) This criterion evaluates additional provisions in power infrastructure that go beyond the Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL) and National Building Code (NBC) to ensure uninterrupted and reliable power supply for digital connectivity. 4.3.1. Sub-Criteria: Redundancy of power source (Weightage - 1) i. Objective: The redundant power sources are essential for reliable operation of digital connectivity. Under this sub-criterion, the availability of redundancy in power sources is assessed to ensure that DCI remain operational even during power failures. This redundancy may include backup generators or alternative power systems. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Verification of actual peak load and available capacity of redundant power source: 381. Verify the availability of redundant power source for DCI. 2. Verify whether all key DCI and systems are on redundant power source like alternate feeder or separate power generator. b. Power Source Switching Tests: Check the functionality of the automatic switchover mechanism between primary and backup power sources on a sample basis. c. Supporting documents: 1. Power layout diagrams. 2. DCI load switchover test report. d. Documentation Review: Verify the power layout diagrams, load test reports submitted by the property manager. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) 1. Power layout diagrams Record Load switchover testing 2. Record reports Table 4.12: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If all digital connectivity services affecting load is 1. 1 supported/ fed by redundant power source Table 4.13: Scoring criteria 4.3.2. Sub-Criteria: UPS power backup for DCI (Weightage – 2) i. Objective: The continuity of power supply is essential for uninterrupted digital connectivity and Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) systems play an important role in service availability for any telecom or information and communication technology system. This sub-criterion will assess the availability and robustness of 39power backup system in case of failure of input sources i.e. commercial power and generator supply. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. UPS backup verification for DCI: 1. Check from the line diagram whether all DCI systems are provided with UPS backup. 2. Verify the DCI system rated load and correspond UPS power capacity provided for DCI from commissioning reports or other authentic documents to calculate the provisioned UPS backup time. 3. Check the availability of UPS system redundancy by way of load sharing among multiple UPS if applicable. 4. Sample test the UPS system’s ability to provide uninterrupted power to the DCI by simulating input power failure. b. Supporting documents: 1. Electrical system line diagram for key DCI elements including redundant input sources and UPS system(s). 2. Test reports of UPS power backup time or other supporting document(s) with full DCI load and other load if any. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record Complia maintenance nce S. No. Item description requirement (Yes/ (Upload/ DCRA No) level) Electrical system line diagram 1. including redundant input Record sources and UPS system(s) Whether all key DCI systems 2. affecting service availability are Record on UPS? Whether UPS system has 3. Record redundancy? UPS switch over successfully 4. Record tested during sample testing? 40Record Complia maintenance nce S. No. Item description requirement (Yes/ (Upload/ DCRA No) level) Whether duration of UPS 5. backup matches with available Record test reports with full DCI load? Table 4.14: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement UPS power backup for important DCI components > 3 1. 2 Hrs. UPS power backup for important DCI components is 2. 1 between 1-3 Hrs. Table 4.15: Scoring criteria 4.3.3. Sub-Criteria: Power continuity monitoring (Weightage – 1) i. Objective: The power supply monitoring system plays an important role in ensuring the power supply continuity to DCI. If the health of power systems like generator or UPS or switch gear systems is not monitored on a continuous basis, it may result in major interruption when input commercial power supply fails. Therefore, this sub- criterion provides special emphasis on the implementation of monitoring system in the property for power services. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Verification of Monitoring Dashboards: Verify availability of dashboards or interfaces showing real-time power status, health status of UPS, generator(s), alerts, and reports/ alerts in case of power failures. b. Validation of Automated Alerts: Test alert mechanisms for their ability to notify maintenance team of power anomalies in real time. c. Supporting documents: Monitoring system screenshots with alerts generated during testing. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance 41summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Monitoring system 1. Record and Upload high level diagram Capture monitoring 2. system dashboard Record and Upload screenshot Monitoring system 3. Record and Upload diagram Table 4.16: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement The dashboard covers end-to-end health status 1. 1 monitoring of all power systems The dashboard covers end-to-end health status 2. 0.5 monitoring of important power systems which may affect DCI availability Table 4.17: Scoring criteria 4.3.4. Sub-Criteria: Building Management System (Weightage – 1) i. Objective: While power monitoring system manages power related installations, building management system (BMS) encompasses monitoring of major building services like fire alarms, access control, Heating, Ventilation Air conditioning (HVAC), power systems etc. These facilities may affect the performance and availability of DCI and digital connectivity services. Thus, availability of BMS in the property enhances the DCI service availability and continuity. Therefore, this sub- criterion has been incorporated as a part of assessment for an enabling system for digital connectivity services. ii. Assessment Methodology 42a. Real-Time Data Integration Tests: Verify that the DCI power, fire alarms and HVAC management system is integrated with the BMS to provide centralized control and monitoring for DCI systems. b. BMS communication and notification validation: Validate that the BMS receives accurate input data from related sensors or actuators and disseminates to the operations team in configured timelines. c. Supporting documents: 1. BMS system high level diagram for DCI system areas of the property. d. Documentation Review: 1. Verify the BMS screenshots against system diagrams. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance requirement Item description No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) BMS system 1. Record architecture diagrams Test report on DCI power systems, fire alarms and 2. Record HVAC integration with BMS Sample test report on detection and notification 3. of main power supply Record failure and takeover by generator/UPS for DCI Table 4.18: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: 43S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement On availability of BMS integration covering 1. 1 power, fire alarm and HVAC for telecom room(s) in the property On availability of BMS integration covering at 2. 0.5 least two out of, power, fire alarm and HVAC for telecom room(s) in the property Table 4.19: Scoring criteria 4.4. Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Resilience (Weightage - 10) Digital connectivity infrastructure (DCI) resilience is a critical factor in ensuring uninterrupted and high-quality digital connectivity for properties. Resilience refers to the ability of the infrastructure to withstand disruptions, minimize downtime, and provide redundancy in case of failures or network congestion. 4.4.1. Sub-Criteria: Availability of alternate entry paths for digital connectivity infrastructure (Weightage – 3) i. Objective: To assess the availability of alternate external entry paths in the property. The alternate entry paths enable the service providers to extend digital connectivity with route diversity which reduces the service disruptions in case of fault in one segment of the network ring including any damage within the property. The availability of route diversity up to the telecom rooms is an ideal scenario. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Physical verification as per design documents: 1. Examine on-site layouts for ducts from the entry points and cable pathways to confirm the availability of alternate entry paths for DCI in the property. 2. Sufficient capacity for multiple service providers. b. Supporting documents: Ducts and pathway layout diagrams to verify the availability on site. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 44Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Ducts layout diagrams from different 1. Record external entry points for fiber/ DCI Pathway layout diagrams from ducts 2. Record to telecom room(s) for fiber/ DCI Table 4.20: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement Availability of alternate duct from property entry point 1. 3 and cable pathway routes till telecom room(s) Availability of alternate duct from property entry point 2. 2 till telecom room Availability of alternate cable pathway routes from 3. 1 common location in property till telecom room(s) Table 4.21: Scoring criteria 4.4.2. Sub-Criteria: Non-flooding measures for DCI installation (Weightage – 3) i. Objective: Flooding can cause significant damage to digital connectivity infrastructure and disruption in digital connectivity. Measures like raised installations, waterproof enclosures, and drainage systems may prevent flooding of key DCI elements. This sub-criterion intends to the implementation of non-flooding measures in the property to protect the DCI. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Site Inspection: 1. Check with the site layout and actual location of telecom rooms if they are located on higher floors, away from potential flooding zones like basements or ground floors. 2. Verify that power equipment like generator set, UPS, switch over panels are installed on raised platforms or locations which are less susceptible to flooding. 453. Verify that no water drain system is connected to the DCI rooms which can cause backflow. b. Drainage System Review: Check the availability of drainage systems with functional checks to prevent backflow of floodwaters. c. Supporting documents: 1. Design and layout documentation to review infrastructure layouts to verify that flood prevention measures align with best practices. 2. Sample photographic evidence for key DCI system as proof of implementation. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether DCI/telecom room(s) 1. are above ground floor as per Record design and implementation? Whether key power systems like UPS/ Generators for DCI are 2. installed on ground or higher Record floor with non-flooding consideration? Whether drainage system is 3. implemented as per design Record layout? Table 4.22: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement Telecom/DCI room(s) and UPS are above ground floor 1. 3 and generators/ switching panels are installed with non- flooding considerations 46S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement Only DCI is implemented above ground floor and backup 2. 2 power system (UPS) is implemented with non-flooding measure If DCI and generator system is implemented with non- 3. 1 flooding consideration Table 4.23: Scoring criteria 4.4.3. Sub-Criteria: Implementation of redundancy in power source and DCI paths (Weightage – 4) i. Objective: The redundant pathways for power and fiber cables inside the property provide path diversity in extending digital connectivity within and across the floor or building blocks. Redundancy should be applied to both the power supply and the connectivity pathways for ensuring that the DCI through other path can take over without impacting digital connectivity. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Redundancy Verification: 1. Review the DCI for the presence of at least two independent power sources (e.g., main power grid and backup generators or UPS). 2. Examine the availability of path diversity for fiber or other cables across the building blocks, basements and towers from digital connectivity infrastructure room(s). 3. Verify that digital connectivity till key aggregation points is supported by a minimum of two physically separated paths. b. Supporting documents: 1. Power and cable layout for DCI indicating path redundancy. 2. Sample test reports demonstrate that actual redundancy performance has been tested during commissioning. c. Documentation Review: 1. Verify power and cable layout diagram for DCI indicating path redundancy with actual implementation. 2. Validate test reports to confirm that redundancy mechanisms function as intended. 47iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether DCI is supported 1. with redundant power Record sources (Generator/ UPS)? Whether power system network layout for DCI is 2. Record implemented with path diversity? Whether sample test reports 3. demonstrate testing of Record redundancy? Whether path diversity for fiber and other cables (DTH/ ethernet as applicable) across the building blocks, 4. Record basements and towers from digital connectivity infrastructure room(s) is implemented? Table 4.24: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If redundant paths are implemented for power system 1. 4 to DCI and fiber path in the property If either the power system to DCI or the fiber path 2. 2 incorporate path redundancy Table 4.25: Scoring criteria 484.5. Future Readiness of Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (Weightage - 10) Future readiness in digital connectivity infrastructure ensures that properties are equipped to support next-generation telecom technologies, evolving connectivity needs and increasing data demands. Future-ready property may be considered to have been designed to adapt, scale, and integrate upcoming innovations in digital connectivity, enabling seamless adoption of emerging technologies like 5G, advanced Wi-Fi and smart building solutions. 4.5.1. Sub-Criteria: Availability of the latest generation of mobile connectivity (Weightage – 4) i. Objective: The infrastructure should be equipped to support the latest generation of mobile connectivity, such as 4G/5G and future network standards, to ensure high- speed, low-latency, and reliable communication. The availability of advanced mobile infrastructure significantly impacts digital connectivity performance and user experience. This sub-criterion focuses on assessing whether a property has the necessary infrastructure to support current and next-generation mobile networks and is future-ready for upcoming technologies. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Inspection of latest technology installed Infrastructure: 1. Physical Verification: Inspect the property’s mobile network infrastructure, providing coverage to the property including distributed antenna systems (DAS), and fiber backhaul connectivity. 2. Technology Support: Evaluate if the installed infrastructure is sufficient to provide coverage in the different areas of the property. b. Technical Validation: 1. Cross-check compatibility with current frequency bands with different service providers for latest/current technology. c. Supporting documents: 1. List of the latest generation mobile connectivity equipment’s installed in the property. 2. Photographs of installed latest generation mobile connectivity equipment. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 49Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Whether the equipment installed 1. supports the latest Record generation of mobile connectivity? Photographs of installed latest 2. generation mobile Record connectivity equipment Table 4.26: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If equipment like DAS, RRU, Base Station, etc. 1. 4 supporting 5G technology are installed in the property for mobile connectivity If equipment like DAS, RRU, Base Station, etc. 2. 2 supporting 4G technology are installed in the property for mobile connectivity Table 4.27: Scoring criteria 4.5.2. Sub-Criteria: Support for future bands (Weightage - 3) i. Objective: To ensure long-term relevance and adaptability, digital connectivity infrastructure must be designed to support the integration of future wireless communication bands and evolving wired and mobile technologies. The rapid evolution of telecommunications standards, frequency bands, and network technologies necessitates a future-proof approach to infrastructure planning. This enables seamless upgrades, minimizes costly retrofitting, and ensures properties remain technologically competitive for years to come. ii. Assessment Methodology a. Validate the support or upgradability of installed Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) for future bands for latest technology. 50b. Verify RF infrastructure installed like radio units, baseband units, duplexers, combiners and transmitters, as applicable, are capable for supporting upcoming technologies and frequency bands. c. Supporting documents: 1. Bill of Material (BoM) installed at the property and datasheets for relevant equipment. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance requirement Item description No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Bill of Material (BoM) installed at building along 1. Record with datasheets for relevant equipment Whether DCI supports future bands for mobile or 2. Wi-Fi network as Record applicable as per datasheets? Table 4.28: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If installed infrastructure supports future bands for 1. 3 4G and 5G technology and/or Wi-Fi network as per the extant frequency roadmap of DoT. If installed infrastructure supports future bands for 2. 2 4G technology and/or Wi-Fi network as per the extant frequency roadmap of DoT. If installed infrastructure supports future bands for 3. 1 4G technology or Wi-Fi network as per the extant frequency roadmap of DoT. Table 4.29: Scoring criteria 514.5.3. Sub-Criteria: Upgradability of wireline DCI (Weightage – 3) i. Objective: Wireline digital connectivity infrastructure (DCI), such as fiber-optic networks, plays a crucial role in ensuring high-speed internet access and seamless communication. As technology evolves, infrastructure must be designed to accommodate future upgrades, such as higher bandwidth capacities, new transmission standards, and enhanced network architectures. This sub-criterion evaluates whether the existing fiber-optic network can be scaled or upgraded without requiring extensive rework. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Existing bandwidth verification: 1. Assess the current fiber-optic network’s bandwidth capabilities to determine if it supports high-speed data transfer (e.g., 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, or higher). 2. Evaluate the type of fiber used and whether it can support technologies such as Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) or Passive Optical Networks (PON). b. Scalability review: 1. Inspect the physical infrastructure, including cable pathways, ducts, and fiber termination points, to verify if additional fiber cables can be added in the future without major structural modifications. 2. Check the fiber distribution frames to assess whether they allow easy upgrades or expansions. 3. Determine whether there is spare capacity in existing ducts and conduits to accommodate additional fiber strands if needed. c. Supporting documents: 1. Documents to demonstrate upgradability of wireline DCI. 2. Photographic evidence of installed wireline DCI to document their capacity for future expansion. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 52Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Upgradability of existing wireline DCI equipment’s 1. (switches/ routers/ splitters/ Record PON etc.) and relevant cables Whether the bandwidth supported through optical 2. Record fiber with speed 1 Gbps or higher? Table 4.30: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If existing wireline infrastructure is on fiber and support 1. 3 minimum 1 Gbps to end users If existing wireline infrastructure is on fiber and support 2. 2 minimum 500 Mbps to end users If existing wireline infrastructure is on fiber and support 3. 1 minimum 100 Mbps to end users Table 4.31: Scoring criteria 4.6. Provision of Wired Connectivity Infrastructure (Weightage - 20) This criterion evaluates the availability, quality, and scalability of the wired connectivity infrastructure within a property. A robust wired network ensures high-speed, reliable, and low-latency digital connectivity, supporting various applications such as business operations, smart building technologies and residential broadband needs as per property use. 534.6.1. Sub-Criteria: Backhaul fiber connectivity (service provider to property) (Weightage – 10) i. Objective: A high-capacity fiber optic backhaul connection is essential to ensure high-speed and uninterrupted digital connectivity for users within the property. The presence of a dedicated fiber connection from the service provider to the property enhances network performance, reduces latency, and supports high-bandwidth applications such as video conferencing, cloud computing, and smart building management systems. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Fiber availability check: 1. Conduct a physical verification of the fiber optic backhaul infrastructure connected to the service provider’s network. 2. Check redundancy measures, such as dual entry fiber paths, in place for uninterrupted fiber connectivity in case of failure. b. Bandwidth verification: 1. Measure and validate the actual peak and average bandwidth available in the property from all service providers on aggregate level. 2. In the case of business, office or commercial property, check availability of leased line support on fiber. c. Supporting documents: Fiber cable details form service providers to the property and supporting documents regarding available bandwidth from each service provider on fiber. d. Documentation Review: Validate the Telecom/ Internet service provider agreements and fiber/ bandwidth testing results. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance Compliance S. No. Item description requirement (Upload/ (Yes/ No) DCRA level) 1. Fiber testing results Record 54Record maintenance Compliance S. No. Item description requirement (Upload/ (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Photographs of fiber 2. termination point at Record and Upload main telecom room Table 4.32: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Criteria (No. of wireline service providers Weightage having fiber backhaul) awarded = 10* (No. of wireline service providers present in the property) (If number of wireline service providers in property are 1. 10 >=3) Note: In the case of wireline service providers there are less than three, the above formula will apply considering 50% weightage (i.e. 5 in place of 10) against this parameter Table 4.33: Scoring criteria 4.6.2. Sub-Criteria: Fiber connectivity till user premises (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: Sub-criterion assesses whether high-capacity fiber-optic infrastructure extends up to the end-users within a property. The aim is to ensure that residents, businesses, and offices benefit from high-speed, reliable internet connectivity. A fiber-optic connection reaching the user premises guarantees superior bandwidth, lower latency, and future-proof infrastructure capable of supporting evolving digital requirements such as 5G backhaul, cloud services, and smart building applications. The well planned and laid fiber cables from telecom room(s) to the user premises (flat/ home/ office/ shop etc. as applicable) enables faster provisioning and easy to maintain. 55ii. Assessment Methodology a. Physical Inspection: Verify that fiber-optic cabling extends up to each residential, office, or commercial unit within the property. b. Supporting documents: 1. Fiber network architecture showing fiber distribution from the telecom/ room or meeting point to each unit. 2. Fiber test reports confirming connectivity to each unit iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Fiber layout diagrams up 1. Record and Upload to user premises Sample fiber test reports 2. confirming connectivity Record and Upload to each user premise Table 4.34: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If fiber connectivity is extended to all user units within 1. 5 the property If fiber connectivity is extended to a minimum of 50% 2. 3 of user units within the property If fiber connectivity is extended to a minimum of 30% 3. 1 of user units within the property Table 4.35: Scoring criteria 4.6.3. Sub-Criteria: Fiber connectivity in each room or office or commercial space (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: The goal of this sub-criterion is to assess whether every individual space within the property, whether a residential unit, office, or commercial establishment—has fiber connectivity. This guarantees seamless high-speed internet 56access across the entire property, eliminating connectivity dead zones and ensuring a uniform digital experience for all occupants. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Visual Inspection: Inspect rooms, offices, or commercial spaces on a sample basis to confirm the presence of fiber-optic connectivity infrastructure and termination points in each room/ office. b. Supporting documents: 1. Network layout diagram for user units showing fiber terminations and sample test reports for fiber terminations. 2. Site survey reports and photographic evidence. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Network layout diagram 1. for user units showing Record fiber terminations Sample test reports for 2. fiber terminations Record and Upload testing Table 4.36: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If fiber connectivity is extended in each room/ office/ 1. 5 commercial space of all user units within the property If fiber connectivity is extended in each room/ office/ 2. 3 commercial space of minimum 50% of user units within the property If fiber connectivity is extended in each room/ office/ 3. 1 commercial space of minimum 30% of user units within the property Table 4.37: Scoring criteria 574.7. Availability of Service Providers (Weightage - 15) This criterion evaluates the number and diversity of wireline and mobile service providers that have integrated their services with the Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) of a property. A higher number of available providers ensure better service quality, redundancy and consumer choice. 4.7.1. Sub-Criteria: Number of wireline Internet Service providers having integration with Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (Weightage - 7.5) i. Objective: The presence of multiple wireline Internet Service Providers (ISPs) within a property significantly enhances competition, service quality, redundancy, and network resilience, ensuring reliable and high-speed digital connectivity. A multi-ISP infrastructure benefits property managers, businesses, and residents by providing greater flexibility, improved service continuity, and optimized cost structures. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Verification of ISP Integration: Confirm the number of wireline TSP/ ISPs integrated with the DCI by inspecting the infrastructure and service availability. b. Telecom/Internet Service Provider Agreement Review: Verify agreements with TSP/ISPs and sample integration test reports. c. Validation: Verify that all integrated TSP/ISPs are operational. d. Supporting documents: 1. Telecom/ Internet Service Provider (TSP/ ISP) Agreements. 2. Network integration certificates/ test reports. 3. Service subscription status. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance Item Compliance S. No. requirement (Upload/ description (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Telecom/ 1. Record Internet Service 58Record maintenance Item Compliance S. No. requirement (Upload/ description (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Provider (ISP) Agreements Network integration 2. Record certificates/ test reports Service 3. subscription Record status Table 4.38: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If 3 or more internet service providers have integration 1. 7.5 with DCI in the property with active service subscription If a minimum of 2 internet service providers have 2. 5 integration with DCI in the property with active service subscription If at least one internet service provider has integration 3. 2 with DCI in the property with active service subscription Table 4.39: Scoring criteria 4.7.2. Sub-Criteria: Number of Mobile Service providers having coverage or integration with Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (Weightage – 7.5) i. Objective: The objective of this sub-criterion is to assess the extent to which multiple mobile service providers (TSPs) are integrated with the property’s digital connectivity infrastructure (DCI) or have adequate service coverage as per sub- criteria 8.1. Having multiple mobile service providers ensures users have reliable network coverage, high-quality service, and reduced congestion, particularly in high-density areas like commercial properties, residential complexes, and office spaces. 59ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Coverage Verification: 1. Confirm the number of Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) providing indoor coverage for the property. 2. Validate integration of the DCI with In-Building Solutions (IBS)/ Small Cells/ Wi-Fi offload for enhanced indoor mobile coverage. b. Supporting documents: 1. Agreements signed with Telecom Service Providers. 2. RF coverage map in the property or walk/ drive test results. c. Documentation Review: Validate the TSP agreements and network integration test reports. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance Compliance S. No. Item description requirement (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) RF coverage map in the property or walk/ drive 1. Record and Upload test results Network performance test 2. results from multiple Record operators Agreements signed with Telecom Service Providers 3. Record (without commercial details) Table 4.40: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If 3 or more mobile service providers have integration with 1. 7.5 DCI in the property or more 75% coverage in indoor area of the property 60S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If at least two mobile service providers have integration 2. 5 with DCI in the property or more 75% coverage in indoor areas If at least one mobile service provider has integration with 3. 2 DCI in the property or more 75% coverage in indoor areas Table 4.41: Scoring criteria 4.8. Service Performance (Weightage: 25) Service performance is a critical factor in evaluating the digital connectivity of a property. This criterion assesses service performance parameters to assess digital experience in the property including lifts and basements. For assessment of mobile service coverage, the reference minimum signal strength for 2G/4G/5G technology shall be same as prescribed by TRAI for publishing of coverage map under revised QoS regulation i.e. ‘THE STANDARDS OF QUALITY OF SERVICE OF ACCESS (WIRELINE AND WIRELESS) AND BROADBAND (WIRELINE AND WIRELESS) SERVICE REGULATIONS, 2024 (06 of 2024)’. 4.8.1. Sub-Criteria: Mobile network coverage and performance in public areas of property (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: The mobile network performance in public areas (e.g., lobbies, corridors, lifts, basements) should meet minimum requirements for signal strength and speed which is essential for superior user experience, safety, and efficient operations. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Conduct RF testing for mobile coverage in public spaces like lobbies, corridors, common utilities like gym, banquet hall, garden, parking, lifts, basements and entrances using industry standard tools. b. Assess data speed and voice call quality over a day (preferably 10 am to 8pm with samples uniformly distributed covering peak hours in property) using test probes for each service provider whose coverage is available on the property and accounted under criteria 7- Availability of Service Providers’. Measurements to be carried out shall include peak as well as off-peak hours. 61c. Supporting documents 1. RF coverage map/ test results of public areas. 2. Speed test logs and call quality reports. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) RF coverage map of 1. Record and Upload public areas Speed test logs and call 2. Record and Upload quality reports Table 4.42: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If at least 3 service providers have more than 85% mobile coverage for their latest generation of 1. 5 technology in public areas (including lifts and basements) with signal strength as prescribed for network coverage map by TRAI. If at least two service providers have more than 85% mobile coverage for their latest generation of 2. 3 technology in public areas (including lifts and basements) with signal strength as prescribed for network coverage map by TRAI. If at least one service provider has more than 85% mobile coverage for their latest generation of 3. 2 technology in public areas (including lifts and basements) with signal strength as prescribed for network coverage map by TRAI. Table 4.43: Scoring criteria 4.8.2. Sub-Criteria: Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and performance in public areas of property (Weightage – 5) 62i. Objective: Public Wi-Fi in the property may complement the mobile coverage. However, it should be secure and offer a high level of performance, with fast speeds and low latency. With secure and seamless public Wi-Fi coverage in the property, consumers can avail the data and voice service. The assessment shall include evaluating its Wi-Fi network availability, security measures in place, speed, and latency required for reliable digital connectivity. ii. Assessment Methodology a. Identify all public areas within the property where Wi-Fi services are provided, such as lobbies, lounges, cafeterias, parking areas, lifts, basements and open seating spaces. b. Conduct sample WPA2/ WPA3 compliance checks for security. c. Conduct coverage, speed and latency tests covering peak hours using industry standard tools. iii. Supporting documents 1. Wi-Fi Coverage Maps: Diagrams or heatmaps showcasing Wi-Fi coverage across the property, highlighting areas with weak or strong signals. 2. Speed Test Results: Logs of speed and latency test results from different locations and times, demonstrating network reliability. 3. Wi-Fi Security Audit Reports: Reports confirming compliance with WPA2/WPA3 security standards, network authentication mechanisms, and encryption configurations. iv. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Wi-Fi coverage 1. maps and speed test Record and Upload results Wi-Fi security audit 2. Record and Upload reports Table 4.44: Compliance checklist 63v. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 85% of 1. 5 public or common area of the property (including lifts and basements) If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 75% of 2. 3 public or common area of the property (including lifts and basements) If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 65% of 3. 2 public or common area of the property (including lifts and basements) Table 4.45: Scoring criteria 4.8.3. Sub-Criteria: Mobile network coverage and performance in non-public areas (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: The mobile network should maintain high performance in private or restricted areas, such as residential flats, offices, conference rooms, lift, basement, executive cabins etc. within a property. The objective of this criterion is to assess the availability of mobile network coverage in private areas of the property. ii. Assessment Methodology a. Conduct RF testing for mobile coverage in pre-defined non-public areas using industry standard tools. b. Monitor and assess data speed, video quality and voice call quality over a day using probes. Measurement to be carried out covering peak hours of traffic in the property. iii. Supporting documents 1. RF coverage map of areas under test or drive test results 2. Speed test logs, call setup success rate and quality (Mean Opinion Score) reports for minimum 100 calls. iv. Compliance check list: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 64Record maintenance S. Item Compliance requirement (Upload/ No. description (Yes/ No) DCRA level) RF coverage map 1. Record and Upload of areas under test Speed test logs and call setup and 2. Record and Upload call quality reports Table 4.46: Compliance checklist v. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If at least 3 service providers have more than 80% mobile coverage for their latest generation of technology in non- 1. 5 public areas (including lifts and basements) with minimum download speed of 10Mbps for 4G or 100 Mbps for 5G technology as applicable. If at least 2 service providers have more than 70% mobile coverage for their latest generation of technology in non- 2. 3 public areas (including lifts and basements) with average minimum download speed of 10Mbps for 4G or 100 Mbps for 5G technology as applicable. If at least 2 service providers have more than 50% mobile coverage for their latest generation of technology in non- 3. 2 public areas (including lifts and basements) with average minimum download speed of 10Mbps for 4G or 100 Mbps for 5G technology as applicable. Table 4.47: Scoring criteria Note: Download speed to be tested through TRAI App. 4.8.4. Sub-Criteria: Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and performance in non-public areas (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: Public Wi-Fi in the property may complement the mobile coverage. However, it should be secure and offer a high level of performance, with fast speeds and low latency. With secure and seamless public Wi-Fi coverage in the property, 65consumers can avail the data and voice service. The goal is to assess Wi-Fi coverage in non-public areas, such as residential flats, enterprise workspaces, executive offices, lifts, basements, conference rooms, etc. These areas require reliable, high- speed, and encrypted Wi-Fi connectivity to support business operations, data security, and seamless enterprise communication. ii. Assessment Methodology: To evaluate compliance with this sub-criterion, the following steps will be undertaken: a. Identify all non-public areas within the property where Wi-Fi services are provided. b. Conduct sample WPA2/ WPA3 compliance checks for security. c. Conduct coverage, speed and latency tests covering peak hours using industry standard tools. iii. Supporting documents: a. Wi-Fi Coverage Maps: Diagrams or heatmaps showing Wi-Fi coverage across the property in non-public areas, highlighting areas with weak or strong signals. b. Speed Test Results: Logs of speed and latency test results from different locations and times, demonstrating network reliability. c. Wi-Fi Security Audit Reports: Reports confirming compliance with WPA2/ WPA3 security standards, network authentication mechanisms, and encryption configurations. iv. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Wi-Fi security 1. Record certifications Wi-Fi coverage maps 2. and speed test Record and Upload results Table 4.48: Compliance checklist 66v. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 85% of non- public areas of the property (including lifts and 1. 5 basements) with minimum download speed of 20 Mbps in peak hours If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 75% of non-public areas of the property (including lifts and 2. 3 basements) with minimum download speed of 20 Mbps in peak hours If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 65% of non-public areas of the property (including lifts and 3. 2 basements) with minimum download speed of 20 Mbps in peak hours Table 4.49: Scoring criteria Note: Download speed to be tested through TRAI App. 4.8.5. Sub-Criteria: Average download speed of different wireline network(s) in respective highest speed plan (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: The objective of this sub-criterion is to assess the highest average download speed supported by different wireline networks or service providers under their offered plans in the property. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Conduct speed tests using standard tools (TRAI My Speed App). Conduct tests during peak traffic hour(s) at least at five different user locations. b. Compare results against advertised speeds under highest plan by respective ISP in highest tier plans. Compare actual speed test results with these promised speeds. c. Supporting documents: Speed test results with timestamps. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 67Record maintenance S. Item Compliance requirement (Upload/ No. description (Yes/ No) DCRA level) 1. Speed test results with Record and Upload timestamps Table 4.50: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If download speed of any wireline network is more than 1. 5 500 Mbps If the download speed of any wireline network is more 2. 3 than 250 Mbps If the download speed of any wireline network is more 3. 2 than 100 Mbps Table 4.51: Scoring criteria 4.9. User Experience (Weightage - 5) User experience assesses user feedback on digital connectivity, including network reliability, speed, latency, and ease of access. It considers factors like seamless browsing, streaming quality and minimal disruptions. A positive experience indicates robust connectivity, while frequent issues highlight areas for improvement. 4.9.1. Sub-Criteria: User feedback on digital connectivity experience (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: The objective of this sub-criterion is to collect and analyze user feedback regarding their experience with mobile, wireline, and Wi-Fi services in a property. User insights help assess the real-world performance of the digital connectivity infrastructure, identify gaps in service quality and drive improvements to enhance the overall connectivity experience. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Conduct structured surveys capturing user satisfaction on voice call quality, voice call accessibility, voice call retainability, data speed (wireline and wireless), latency, service uptime and coverage. 68b. The feedback should be collected from a minimum of 10% of the users of the property if the total users are less than 1000. In case total users are more than 1000, then feedback may be collected from a minimum of 100 users. The users in survey should be distributed across gender and broad adult age groups. iii. Supporting documents: a. User feedback form (please refer to Appendix section for the indicative feedback form). iv. Compliance check list: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format. Record maintenance S. Compliance requirement Item description No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) 1. User feedback form Record and Upload Table 4.52: Compliance checklist v. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If 80% of users provide overall positive experience for 1. 5 digital connectivity in the property If 70% of users provide overall positive experience for 2. 3 digital connectivity in the property If 50% of users provide overall positive experience 3. 2 for digital connectivity in the property If 40% of users provide overall positive experience for 4. 1 digital connectivity in the property Table 4.53: Scoring criteria Note: In case of new property, where actual end users are yet to use services, the weightage against ‘user experience’ shall be merged with ‘Service Performance’. 694.10. Summary of Rating Score After assessment and scoring against each criterion and sub-criteria as per assessment methodology, the DCRA shall prepare the summary of rating score in following format for final updating in the rating platform for generating the rating certificate: Sub Score Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria awarded No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage by DCRA [d] Compliance to applicable 4.1.1 Approved DCI 2.5 Model design Building Bye Laws (MBBL) 4.1 5 and National 4.1.2 DCI Building Code implementation as 2.5 (NBC) for per approved DCI digital design connectivity 4.2.1 Provision for Provision in expansion of telecom 2 civil rooms and cable infrastructure, pathways over and 4.2.2 Provision for above MBBL expansion of mobile 4.2 5 2 and NBC and wireline requirements, connectivity for ensuring 4.2.3 Ease of access robust digital of DCI installed for 1 connectivity repair or maintenance Provision in 4.3.1 Redundancy of 1 power power source infrastructure, 4.3.2 UPS power 2 over and backup for DCI above MBBL 4.3.3 Power 4.3 5 or NBC continuity 1 requirements, monitoring for ensuring 4.3.4 Building reliable digital 1 Management System connectivity 70Sub Score Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria awarded No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage by DCRA [d] 4.4.1 Availability of alternate entry paths for digital 3 connectivity infrastructure Digital Connectivity 4.4.2 Non-flooding 4.4 10 Infrastructure measures for DCI 3 Resilience installation 4.4.3.Implementation of redundancy in 4 power source and DCI paths 4.5.1 Availability of the latest generation 4 Future of mobile Readiness of connectivity 4.5 Digital 10 4.5.2 Support for 3 Connectivity future bands Infrastructure 4.5.3 Upgradability of 3 wireline DCI 4.6.1 Backhaul fiber connectivity (service 10 provider to property) Provision of 4.6.2 Fiber Wired connectivity till user 5 4.6 20 Connectivity premises infrastructure 4.6.3 Fiber connectivity in each 5 room or office or commercial space 71Sub Score Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria awarded No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage by DCRA [d] 4.7.1 Number of wireline Internet Service providers having 7.5 integration with Digital Connectivity Availability of Infrastructure 4.7 Service 15 4.7.2 Number of Providers Mobile Service providers having coverage or 7.5 integration with Digital Connectivity Infrastructure 4.8.1 Mobile network coverage and performance in 5 public areas of property 4.8.2 Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and 5 performance in public areas of Service 4.8 25 property Performance 4.8.3 Mobile network coverage and 5 performance in non- public areas 4.8.4 Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and 5 performance in non- public areas 72Sub Score Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria awarded No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage by DCRA [d] 4.8.5 Average download speed of different wireline 5 network(s) in respective highest speed plan 4.9.1 User feedback User on digital 4.9 5 5 Experience connectivity experience Table 4.54: Summary of Rating Score 735. Assessment Methodology for Category ‘B’ Properties The regulation 25 under Section – VII “Rating criteria and process for evaluation of digital connectivity and award of ratings” of the Regulation provides criteria, weightage and high-level sub-criteria against each main criterion as indicated in column [a], [b] and [c] respectively in Table 5.1. To enable uniform and objective assessment against each sub-criteria, the sub- criteria weightage shall be as provided in column [d]. The sub-criteria weightage has been arrived, factoring their relative importance for assessment of digital connectivity and associated infrastructure for properties under Category ‘B’. Sub Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage [d] Provision in 5.1.1 Redundancy of power source 2 power infrastructure 5.1.2 UPS power backup for DCI 4 5.1 for ensuring 10 reliable 5.1.3 Power continuity monitoring 2 digital 5.1.4 Building Management connectivity 2 System 5.2.1 Availability of alternate entry paths for digital connectivity 3 Digital infrastructure Connectivity 5.2.2 Non-flooding measures for 5.2 10 3 Infrastructure DCI installation Resilience 5.2.3 Implementation of redundancy in power source and 4 DCI paths Future 5.3.1 Availability of the latest 4 Readiness of generation of mobile connectivity 5.3 Digital 10 5.3.2 Support for future bands 3 Connectivity Infrastructure 5.3.3 Upgradability of wireline DCI 3 Provision of 5.4.1 Backhaul fibre connectivity 10 Wired (service provider to property) 5.4 20 Connectivity 5.4.2 Fibre connectivity till user 5 infrastructure premises 74Sub Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage [d] 5.4.3 Fibre connectivity in each 5 room or office or commercial space 5.5.1 Number of wireline Internet Service providers having 7.5 integration with Digital Availability of Connectivity Infrastructure 5.5 Service 15 5.5.2 Number of Mobile Service Providers providers having coverage or 7.5 integration with Digital Connectivity Infrastructure 5.6.1 Mobile network coverage and performance in public areas of 5 property 5.6.2 Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and performance in 5 public areas of property Service 5.6.3 Mobile network coverage and 5.6 25 5 Performance performance in non-public areas 5.6.4 Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and performance in non- 5 public areas 5.6.5 Average download speed of different wireline network(s) in 5 respective highest speed plan User 5.7.1 User feedback on digital 5.7 10 10 Experience connectivity experience Table 5.1: Weightage for different sub-criteria for category ‘B’ properties The Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) shall assess the digital connectivity and associated infrastructure as per provisions of the Regulations. The assessment methodology against each sub-criterion is provided in the following sections. The DCRA shall scrupulously follow the assessment methodology and collect the artifacts, evidence or test results as prescribed against respective sub-criteria under each main criterion. The required supporting documents shall be preserved by the DCRA or uploaded to the rating platform as per the requirement of the regulations, guidelines or rating manual issued or amended from time to time. 755.1. Provision in Power Infrastructure for Ensuring Reliable Digital Connectivity (Weightage: 10) This criterion evaluates provisions in power infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted and reliable power supply for digital connectivity. 5.1.1. Sub-Criteria: Redundancy of power source (Weightage: 2) i. Objective: The redundant power sources are essential for reliable operation of digital connectivity. Under this sub-criterion, the availability of redundancy in power sources is assessed to ensure that DCI remain operational even during power failures. This redundancy may include backup generators or alternative power systems. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Verification of actual peak load and available capacity of redundant power source: 1. Verify the availability of redundant power source for DCI. 2. Verify whether all key DCI and systems are on redundant power source like alternate feeder or separate power generator. b. Power Source Switching Tests: Check the functionality of the automatic switchover mechanism between primary and backup power sources on a sample basis. c. Supporting documents: 1. Power layout diagrams. 2. DCI load switchover test report. d. Documentation Review: Verify the power layout diagrams, load test reports submitted by the property manager. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) 1. Power layout diagrams Record 76Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Load switchover testing 2. Record reports Table 5.2: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If all digital connectivity services affecting load is 1. 2 supported/ fed by redundant power source Table 5.3: Scoring criteria 5.1.2. Sub-Criteria: UPS power backup for DCI (Weightage – 4) i. Objective: The continuity of power supply is essential for uninterrupted digital connectivity and Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) systems play an important role in service availability for any telecom or information and communication technology system. This sub-criterion will assess the availability and robustness of power backup system in case of failure of input sources i.e. commercial power and generator supply. ii. Assessment Methodology a. UPS backup verification for DCI: 1. Check from the line diagram whether all DCI systems are provided with UPS backup. 2. Verify the DCI system rated load and correspond UPS power capacity provided for DCI from commissioning reports or other authentic documents to calculate the provisioned UPS backup time. 3. Check the availability of UPS system redundancy by way of load sharing among multiple UPS if applicable. 4. Sample test the UPS system’s ability to provide uninterrupted power to the DCI by simulating input power failure. b. Supporting documents: 1. Electrical system line diagram for key DCI elements including redundant input sources and UPS system(s). 2. Test reports of UPS power backup time or other supporting document(s) with full DCI load and other load if any. 77iii. Compliance check list: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance Compliance S. No. Item description requirement (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Electrical system line diagram 1. including redundant input Record sources and UPS system(s) Whether all key DCI systems 2. affecting service availability are Record on UPS? Whether UPS system has 3. Record redundancy? UPS switch over successfully 4. Record tested during sample testing? Whether duration of UPS 5. backup matches with available Record test reports with full DCI load? Table 5.4: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement UPS power backup for important DCI components > 3 1. 4 Hrs. UPS power backup for important DCI components is 2. 2 between 1-3 Hrs. Table 5.5: Scoring criteria 5.1.3. Sub-Criteria: Power continuity monitoring (Weightage – 2) i. Objective: The power supply monitoring system plays an important role in ensuring the power supply continuity to DCI. If the health of power systems like generator or UPS or switch gear systems is not monitored on a continuous basis, it may result in major interruption when input commercial power supply fails. 78Therefore, this sub-criterion provides special emphasis on the implementation of monitoring system in the property for power services. ii. Assessment Methodology a. Verification of Monitoring Dashboards: Verify availability of dashboards or interfaces showing real-time power status, health status of UPS, generator(s), alerts, and reports/alerts in case of power failures. b. Validation of Automated Alerts: Test alert mechanisms for their ability to notify maintenance team of power anomalies in real time. c. Supporting documents: Monitoring system screenshots with alerts generated during testing. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Monitoring system 1. Record and Upload high level diagram Capture monitoring 2. system dashboard Record and Upload screenshot Monitoring system 3. Record and Upload diagram Table 5.6: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award weightage against this sub-criterion as per the following scoring criteria: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement The dashboard covers end-to-end health status 1. 2 monitoring of all power systems The dashboard covers end-to-end health status 2. 1 monitoring of important power systems which may affect DCI availability Table 5.7: Scoring criteria 795.1.4. Sub-Criteria: Building Management System (Weightage – 2) i. Objective: While power monitoring system manages power related installations, building management system (BMS) encompasses monitoring of major building services like fire alarms, access control, Heating, Ventilation Air conditioning (HVAC), power systems etc. These facilities may affect the performance and availability of DCI and digital connectivity services. Thus, availability of BMS in the property enhances the DCI service availability and continuity. Therefore, this sub- criterion has been incorporated as a part of assessment for an enabling system for digital connectivity services. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Real-Time Data Integration Tests: Verify that the DCI power, fire alarms and HVAC management system is integrated with the BMS to provide centralized control and monitoring for DCI systems. b. BMS communication and notification validation: Validate that the BMS receives accurate input data from related sensors or actuators and disseminates to the operations team in configured timelines. c. Supporting documents: 1. BMS system high level diagram for DCI system areas of the property. d. Documentation Review: 1. Verify the BMS screenshots against system diagrams. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance 0S. Compliance requirement Item description No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) BMS system architecture 1. Record diagrams 80Record maintenance 0S. Compliance requirement Item description No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Test report on DCI power systems, fire alarms and 2. Record HVAC integration with BMS Sample test report on detection and notification 3. of main power supply Record failure and takeover by generator/ UPS for DCI Table 5.8: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement On availability of BMS integration covering 1. 2 power, fire alarm and HVAC for telecom room(s) in the property On availability of BMS integration covering at 2. 1 least two out of, power, fire alarm and HVAC for telecom room(s) in the property Table 5.9: Scoring criteria 5.2. Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Resilience (Weightage: 10) Digital connectivity infrastructure (DCI) resilience is a critical factor in ensuring uninterrupted and high-quality digital connectivity for properties. Resilience refers to the ability of the infrastructure to withstand disruptions, minimize downtime, and provide redundancy in case of failures or network congestion. 5.2.1. Sub-Criteria: Availability of alternate entry paths for digital connectivity infrastructure (Weightage – 3) i. Objective: To assess the availability of alternate external entry paths in the property. The alternate entry paths enable the service providers to extend digital connectivity with route diversity which reduces the service disruptions in case of 81fault in one segment of the network ring including any damage within the property. The availability of route diversity up to the telecom rooms is an ideal scenario. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Physical verification as per design documents: 1. Examine on-site layouts for ducts from the entry points and cable pathways to confirm the availability of alternate entry paths for DCI in the property. 2. Sufficient capacity for multiple service providers. b. Supporting documents: Ducts and pathway layout diagrams to verify the availability on site. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Ducts layout diagrams from different 1. Record external entry points for fiber/ DCI Pathway layout diagrams from ducts 2. Record to telecom room(s) for fiber/ DCI Table 5.10: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement Availability of alternate duct from property entry point 1. 3 and cable pathway routes till telecom room(s) Availability of alternate duct from property entry point 2. 2 till telecom room Availability of alternate cable pathway routes from 3. 1 common location in property till telecom room(s) Table 5.11: Scoring criteria 825.2.2. Sub-Criteria: Non-flooding measures for DCI installation (Weightage – 3) i. Objective: Flooding can cause significant damage to digital connectivity infrastructure and disruption in digital connectivity. Measures like raised installations, waterproof enclosures, and drainage systems may prevent flooding of key DCI elements. This sub-criterion intends to access the implementation of non- flooding measures in the property to protect the DCI. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Site Inspection: 1. Check with the site layout and actual location of telecom rooms if they are located on higher floors, away from potential flooding zones like basements or ground floors. 2. Verify that power equipment like generator set, UPS, switch over panels are installed on raised platforms or locations which are less susceptible to flooding. 3. Verify that no water drain system is connected to the DCI rooms which can cause backflow. b. Drainage System Review: Check the availability of drainage systems with functional checks to prevent backflow of floodwaters. c. Supporting documents: 1. Design and layout documentation to review infrastructure layouts to verify that flood prevention measures align with best practices. 2. Sample photographic evidence for key DCI system as proof of implementation. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether DCI/ telecom room(s) 1. are above ground floor as per Record design and implementation? 83Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether key power systems like UPS/ Generators for DCI are 2. installed on ground or higher Record floor with non-flooding consideration? Whether drainage system is 3. implemented as per design Record layout? Table 5.12: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement Telecom/DCI room(s) and UPS are above ground floor 1. 3 and generators/ switching panels are installed with non- flooding considerations Only DCI is implemented above ground floor and backup 2. 2 power system (UPS) is implemented with non-flooding measure If DCI and generator system is implemented with non- 3. 1 flooding consideration Table 5.13: Scoring criteria 5.2.3. Sub-Criteria: Implementation of redundancy in power source and DCI paths (Weightage – 4) i. Objective: The redundant pathways for power and fiber cables inside the property provide path diversity in extending digital connectivity within and across the floor or building blocks. Redundancy should be applied to both the power supply and the connectivity pathways for ensuring that the DCI through other path can take over without impacting digital connectivity. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Redundancy Verification: 841. Review the DCI for the presence of at least two independent power sources (e.g., main power grid and backup generators or UPS). 2. Examine the availability of path diversity for fiber or other cables across the building blocks, basements and towers from digital connectivity infrastructure room(s). 3. Verify that digital connectivity till key aggregation points is supported by a minimum of two physically separated paths. b. Supporting documents: 1. Power and cable layout for DCI indicating path redundancy. 2. Sample test reports demonstrate that actual redundancy performance has been tested during commissioning. c. Documentation Review: 1. Verify power and cable layout diagram for DCI indicating path redundancy with actual implementation. 2. Validate test reports to confirm that redundancy mechanisms function as intended. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether DCI is supported 1. with redundant power Record sources (Generator/UPS)? Whether power system network layout for DCI is 2. Record implemented with path diversity? Whether sample test reports 3. demonstrate testing of Record redundancy? 85Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether path diversity for fiber and other cables (DTH/ ethernet as applicable) across the building blocks, 4. Record basements and towers from digital connectivity infrastructure room(s) is implemented? Table 5.14: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If redundant paths are implemented for power system 1. 4 to DCI and fiber path in the property If either the power system to DCI or the fiber path 2. 2 incorporate path redundancy Table 5.15: Scoring criteria 5.3. Future Readiness of Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (Weightage - 10) Future readiness in digital connectivity infrastructure ensures that properties are equipped to support next-generation telecom technologies, evolving connectivity needs and increasing data demands. Future-ready property may be considered to have been designed to adapt, scale, and integrate upcoming innovations in digital connectivity, enabling seamless adoption of emerging technologies like 5G, advanced Wi-Fi and smart building solutions. 5.3.1. Sub-Criteria: Availability of the latest generation of mobile connectivity (Weightage – 4) i. Objective: The infrastructure should be equipped to support the latest generation of mobile connectivity, such as 4G/5G and future network standards, to ensure high-speed, low-latency, and reliable communication. The availability of advanced mobile infrastructure significantly impacts digital connectivity performance and user experience. This sub-criterion focuses on assessing whether a property has the 86necessary infrastructure to support current and next-generation mobile networks and is future-ready for upcoming technologies. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Inspection of latest technology installed Infrastructure: 1. Physical Verification: Inspect the property’s mobile network infrastructure, providing coverage to the property including distributed antenna systems (DAS), and fiber backhaul connectivity. 2. Technology Support: Evaluate if the installed infrastructure is sufficient to provide coverage in the different areas of the property. b. Technical Validation: 1. Cross-check compatibility with current frequency bands with different service providers for latest/ current technology. c. Supporting documents: 1. List of the latest generation mobile connectivity equipment’s installed in the property. 2. Photographs of installed latest generation mobile connectivity equipment. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance requirement Item description No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether the equipment installed supports the 1. Record latest generation of mobile connectivity? Photographs of installed 2. latest generation mobile Record connectivity equipment Table 5.16: Compliance checklist 87iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If equipment like DAS, RRU, Base Station, etc. 1. 4 supporting 5G technology are installed in the property for mobile connectivity If equipment like DAS, RRU, Base Station, etc. 2. 2 supporting 4G technology are installed in the property for mobile connectivity Table 5.17: Scoring criteria 5.3.2. Sub-Criteria: Support for future bands (Weightage - 3) i. Objective: To ensure long-term relevance and adaptability, digital connectivity infrastructure must be designed to support the integration of future wireless communication bands and evolving wired and mobile technologies. The rapid evolution of telecommunications standards, frequency bands, and network technologies necessitates a future-proof approach to infrastructure planning. This enables seamless upgrades, minimizes costly retrofitting, and ensures properties remain technologically competitive for years to come. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Validate the support or upgradability of installed Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) for future bands for latest technology. b. Verify RF infrastructure installed like radio units, baseband units, duplexers, combiners and transmitters, as applicable, are capable for supporting upcoming technologies and frequency bands. c. Supporting documents: 1. Bill of Material (BoM) installed at the property and datasheets for relevant equipment. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format. 88Record maintenance S. Compliance requirement Item description No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Bill of Material (BoM) installed at building along 1. Record with datasheets for relevant equipment Whether DCI supports future bands for mobile or 2. Wi-Fi network as Record applicable as per datasheets? Table 5.18: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If installed infrastructure supports future bands for 1. 3 4G and 5G technology and/or Wi-Fi network as per the extant frequency roadmap of DoT. If installed infrastructure supports future bands for 2. 2 4G technology and/or Wi-Fi network as per the extant frequency roadmap of DoT. If installed infrastructure supports future bands for 3. 1 4G technology or Wi-Fi network as per the extant frequency roadmap of DoT. Table 5.19: Scoring criteria 5.3.3. Sub-Criteria: Upgradability of wireline DCI (Weightage – 3) i. Objective: Wireline digital connectivity infrastructure (DCI), such as fiber-optic networks, plays a crucial role in ensuring high-speed internet access and seamless communication. As technology evolves, infrastructure must be designed to accommodate future upgrades, such as higher bandwidth capacities, new transmission standards, and enhanced network architectures. This sub-criterion evaluates whether the existing fiber-optic network can be scaled or upgraded without requiring extensive rework. 89ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Existing bandwidth verification: 1. Assess the current fiber-optic network’s bandwidth capabilities to determine if it supports high-speed data transfer (e.g., 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, or higher). 2. Evaluate the type of fiber used and whether it can support technologies such as Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) or Passive Optical Networks (PON). b. Scalability review: 1. Inspect the physical infrastructure, including cable pathways, ducts, and fiber termination points, to verify if additional fiber cables can be added in the future without major structural modifications. 2. Check the fiber distribution frames to assess whether they allow easy upgrades or expansions. 3. Determine whether there is spare capacity in existing ducts and conduits to accommodate additional fiber strands if needed. c. Supporting documents: 1. Documents to demonstrate upgradability of wireline DCI. 2. Photographic evidence of installed wireline DCI to document their capacity for future expansion. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Upgradability of existing wireline DCI equipment’s 1. Record (switches/ routers/ splitters/ PON etc.) and relevant cables 90Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether the bandwidth supported through optical 2. Record fiber with speed 1 Gbps or higher? Table 5.20: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If existing wireline infrastructure is on fiber and support 1. 3 minimum 1 Gbps to end users If existing wireline infrastructure is on fiber and support 2. 2 minimum 500 Mbps to end users If existing wireline infrastructure is on fiber and support 3. 1 minimum 100 Mbps to end users Table 5.21: Scoring criteria 5.4. Provision of Wired Connectivity Infrastructure (Weightage - 20) This criterion evaluates the availability, quality, and scalability of the wired connectivity infrastructure within a property. A robust wired network ensures high-speed, reliable, and low-latency digital connectivity, supporting various applications such as business operations, smart building technologies and residential broadband needs as per property use. 5.4.1. Sub-Criteria: Backhaul fiber connectivity (service provider to property) (Weightage – 10) i. Objective: A high-capacity fiber optic backhaul connection is essential to ensure high-speed and uninterrupted digital connectivity for users within the property. The presence of a dedicated fiber connection from the service provider to the property enhances network performance, reduces latency, and supports high-bandwidth 91applications such as video conferencing, cloud computing, and smart building management systems. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Fiber availability check: 1. Conduct a physical verification of the fiber optic backhaul infrastructure connected to the service provider’s network. 2. Check redundancy measures, such as dual entry fiber paths, in place for uninterrupted fiber connectivity in case of failure. b. Bandwidth verification: 1. Measure and validate the actual peak and average bandwidth available in the property from all service providers on aggregate level. 2. In the case of business, office or commercial property, check availability of leased line support on fiber. c. Supporting documents: 1. Fiber cable details form service providers to the property and supporting documents regarding available bandwidth from each service provider on fiber. d. Documentation Review: Validate the Telecom/ Internet service provider agreements and fiber/ bandwidth testing results. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance Compliance S. No. Item description requirement (Upload/ (Yes/ No) DCRA level) 1. Fiber testing results Record Photographs of fiber 2. termination point at Record and Upload main telecom room Table 5.22: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: 92S. No. Weightage Criteria (No. of wireline service providers Weightage having fiber backhaul) awarded = 10* (No. of wireline service providers present in the property) (If number of wireline service providers in property are 1. 10 >=3) Note: In the case of wireline service providers there are less than three, the above formula will apply considering 50% weightage (i.e. 5 in place of 10) against this parameter Table 5.23: Scoring criteria 5.4.2. Sub-Criteria: Fiber connectivity till user premises (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: Sub-criterion assesses whether high-capacity fiber-optic infrastructure is extends up to the end-users within a property. The aim is to ensure that residents, businesses, and offices benefit from high-speed, reliable internet connectivity. A fiber-optic connection reaching the user premises guarantees superior bandwidth, lower latency, and future-proof infrastructure capable of supporting evolving digital requirements such as 5G backhaul, cloud services, and smart building applications. The well planned and laid fiber cables from telecom room(s) to the user premises (flat/home/office/shop etc. as applicable) enables faster provisioning and easy to maintain. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Physical Inspection: Verify that fiber-optic cabling extends up to each residential, office, or commercial unit within the property. b. Supporting documents: 1. Fiber network architecture showing fiber distribution from the telecom/ room or meeting point to each unit. 2. Fiber test reports confirming connectivity to each unit iii. Compliance check list: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance 93summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Fiber layout diagrams up 1. Record and Upload to user premises Sample fiber test reports 2. confirming connectivity Record and Upload to each user premise Table 5.24: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If fiber connectivity is extended to all user units within 1. 5 the property If fiber connectivity is extended to a minimum of 50% 2. 3 of user units within the property If fiber connectivity is extended to a minimum of 30% 3. 1 of user units within the property Table 5.25: Scoring criteria 5.4.3. Sub-Criteria: Fiber connectivity in each room or office or commercial space (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: The goal of this sub-criterion is to assess whether every individual space within the property, whether a residential unit, office, or commercial establishment—has fiber connectivity. This guarantees seamless high-speed internet access across the entire property, eliminating connectivity dead zones and ensuring a uniform digital experience for all occupants. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Visual Inspection: Inspect rooms, offices, or commercial spaces on a sample basis to confirm the presence of fiber-optic connectivity infrastructure and termination points in each room/ office. 94b. Supporting documents: 1. Network layout diagram for user units showing fiber terminations and sample test reports for fiber terminations. 2. Site survey reports and photographic evidence. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Item Compliance requirement (Upload/ No. description (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Network layout diagram for user 1. Record units showing fiber terminations Sample test reports for fiber 2. Record and Upload terminations testing Table 5.26: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If fiber connectivity is extended in each room/ office/ 1. 5 commercial space of all user units within the property If fiber connectivity is extended in each room/ office/ 2. 3 commercial space of minimum 50% of user units within the property If fiber connectivity is extended in each room/ office/ 3. 1 commercial space of minimum 30% of user units within the property Table 5.27: Scoring criteria 5.5. Availability of Service Providers (Weightage - 15) This criterion evaluates the number and diversity of wireline and mobile service providers that have integrated their services with the Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) of a property. A higher number of available providers ensure better service quality, redundancy and consumer choice. 955.5.1. Sub-Criteria: Number of wireline Internet Service providers having integration with Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (Weightage - 7.5) i. Objective: The presence of multiple wireline Internet Service Providers (ISPs) within a property significantly enhances competition, service quality, redundancy, and network resilience, ensuring reliable and high-speed digital connectivity. A multi-ISP infrastructure benefits property managers, businesses, and residents by providing greater flexibility, improved service continuity, and optimized cost structures. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Verification of ISP Integration: Confirm the number of wireline TSP/ ISPs integrated with the DCI by inspecting the infrastructure and service availability. b. Telecom/Internet Service Provider Agreement Review: Verify agreements with TSP/ ISPs and sample integration test reports. c. Validation: Verify that all integrated TSP/ ISPs are operational. d. Supporting documents: 1. Telecom/ Internet Service Provider (TSP/ ISP) Agreements. 2. Network integration certificates/ test reports. 3. Service subscription status. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance Item Compliance S. No. requirement (Upload/ description (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Telecom/ Internet Service 1. Record Provider (ISP) Agreements Network integration 2. Record certificates/test reports 96Record maintenance Item Compliance S. No. requirement (Upload/ description (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Service 3. subscription Record status Table 5.28: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If 3 or more internet service providers have integration 1. 7.5 with DCI in the property with active service subscription If a minimum of 2 internet service providers have 2. 5 integration with DCI in the property with active service subscription If at least one internet service provider has integration 3. 2 with DCI in the property with active service subscription Table 5.29: Scoring criteria 5.5.2. Sub-Criteria: Number of Mobile Service providers having coverage or integration with Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (Weightage – 7.5) i. Objective: The objective of this sub-criterion is to assess the extent to which multiple mobile service providers (TSPs) are integrated with the property’s digital connectivity infrastructure (DCI) or have adequate service coverage as per sub- criteria 8.1. Having multiple mobile service providers ensures users have reliable network coverage, high-quality service, and reduced congestion, particularly in high- density areas like commercial properties, residential complexes, and office spaces. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Coverage Verification: 1. Confirm the number of Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) providing indoor coverage for the property. 2. Validate integration of the DCI with In-Building Solutions (IBS)/ Small Cells/ Wi-Fi offload for enhanced indoor mobile coverage. 97b. Supporting documents: 1. Agreements signed with Telecom Service Providers. 2. RF coverage map in the property or walk/ drive test results. c. Documentation Review: Validate the TSP agreements and network integration test reports. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance Compliance S. No. Item description requirement (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) RF coverage map in the property or walk/ drive 1. Record and Upload test results Network performance test 2. results from multiple Record operators Agreements signed with Telecom Service Providers 3. Record (without commercial details) Table 5.30: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If 3 or more mobile service providers have integration with 1. 7.5 DCI in the property or more 75% coverage in indoor area of the property If at least two mobile service providers have integration 2. 5 with DCI in the property or more 75% coverage in indoor areas If at least one mobile service provider has integration with 3. 2 DCI in the property or more 75% coverage in indoor areas Table 5.31: Scoring criteria 985.6. Service Performance (Weightage - 25) Service performance is a critical factor in evaluating the digital connectivity of a property. This criterion assesses service performance parameters to assess digital experience in the property including lifts and basements. For assessment of mobile service coverage, the reference minimum signal strength for 2G/4G/5G technology shall be same as prescribed by TRAI for publishing of coverage map under revised QoS regulation i.e. ‘THE STANDARDS OF QUALITY OF SERVICE OF ACCESS (WIRELINE AND WIRELESS) AND BROADBAND (WIRELINE AND WIRELESS) SERVICE REGULATIONS, 2024 (06 of 2024)’. 5.6.1. Sub-Criteria: Mobile network coverage and performance in public areas of property (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: The mobile network performance in public areas (e.g., lobbies, corridors) should meet minimum requirements for signal strength and speed which is essential for superior user experience, safety, and efficient operations. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Conduct RF testing for mobile coverage in public spaces like lobbies, corridors, common utilities like gym, banquet hall, garden, parking, lifts, basements and entrances using industry standard tools. b. Assess data speed and voice call quality over a day (preferably 10 am to 8pm with samples uniformly distributed covering peak hours in property) using test probes for each service provider whose coverage is available on the property and accounted under criteria 7- Availability of Service Providers’. Measurements to be carried out shall include peak as well as off-peak hours. c. Supporting documents: 1. RF coverage map/ test results of public areas. 2. Speed test logs and call quality reports. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 99Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) RF coverage map of 1. Record and Upload public areas Speed test logs and call 2. Record and Upload quality reports Table 5.32: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If at least 3 service providers have more than 85% mobile coverage for their latest generation of 1. 5 technology in public areas (including lifts and basements) with signal strength as prescribed for network coverage map by TRAI. If at least two service providers have more than 85% mobile coverage for their latest generation of 2. 3 technology in public areas (including lifts and basements) with signal strength as prescribed for network coverage map by TRAI. If at least one service provider has more than 85% mobile coverage for their latest generation of 3. 2 technology in public areas (including lifts and basements) with signal strength as prescribed for network coverage map by TRAI. Table 5.33: Scoring criteria 5.6.2. Sub-Criteria: Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and performance in public areas of property (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: Public Wi-Fi in the property may complement the mobile coverage. However, it should be secure and offer a high level of performance, with fast speeds and low latency. With secure and seamless public Wi-Fi coverage in the property, consumers can avail the data and voice service. The assessment shall include evaluating its Wi-Fi network availability, security measures in place, speed, and latency required for reliable digital connectivity. 10 0ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Identify all public areas within the property where Wi-Fi services are provided, such as lobbies, lounges, cafeterias, parking areas, lifts, basements and open seating spaces. b. Conduct sample WPA2/ WPA3 compliance checks for security. c. Conduct coverage, speed and latency tests covering peak hours using industry standard tools. iii. Supporting documents: 1. Wi-Fi Coverage Maps: Diagrams or heatmaps showcasing Wi-Fi coverage across the property, highlighting areas with weak or strong signals. 2. Speed Test Results: Logs of speed and latency test results from different locations and times, demonstrating network reliability. 3. Wi-Fi Security Audit Reports: Reports confirming compliance with WPA2/ WPA3 security standards, network authentication mechanisms, and encryption configurations. iv. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Wi-Fi coverage 1. maps and speed test Record and Upload results Wi-Fi security audit 2. Record and Upload reports Table 5.34: Compliance checklist v. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: 10 1S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 85% of 1. 5 public or common area of the property (including lifts and basements) If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 75% of 2. 3 public or common area of the property (including lifts and basements) If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 65% of 3. 2 public or common area of the property (including lifts and basements) Table 5.35: Scoring criteria 5.6.3. Sub-Criteria: Mobile network coverage and performance in non-public areas (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: The mobile network should maintain high performance in private or restricted areas, such as residential flats, offices, conference rooms, lifts, basements, executive cabins etc. within a property. The objective of this criterion is to assess the availability of mobile network coverage in private areas of the property. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Conduct RF testing for mobile coverage in pre-defined non-public areas using industry standard tools. b. Monitor and assess data speed, video quality and voice call quality over a day using probes. Measurement to be carried out covering peak hours of traffic in the property. iii. Supporting documents: 1. RF coverage map of areas under test or drive test results. 2. Speed test logs, call setup success rate and quality (Mean Opinion Score) reports for minimum 100 calls. iv. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 10 2Record maintenance S. Item Compliance requirement (Upload/ No. description (Yes/ No) DCRA level) RF coverage map 1. Record and Upload of areas under test Speed test logs and call setup and 2. Record and Upload call quality reports Table 5.36: Compliance checklist v. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If at least 3 service providers have more than 80% mobile coverage for their latest generation of technology in non- 1. 5 public areas (including lifts and basements) with minimum download speed of 10Mbps for 4G or 100 Mbps for 5G technology as applicable. If at least 2 service providers have more than 70% mobile coverage for their latest generation of technology in non- 2. 3 public areas (including lifts and basements) with average minimum download speed of 10Mbps for 4G or 100 Mbps for 5G technology as applicable. If at least 2 service providers have more than 50% mobile coverage for their latest generation of technology in non- 3. 2 public areas (including lifts and basements) with average minimum download speed of 10Mbps for 4G or 100 Mbps for 5G technology as applicable. Table 5.37: Scoring criteria Note: Download speed to be tested through TRAI App. 5.6.4. Sub-Criteria: Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and performance in non-public areas (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: Public Wi-Fi in the property may complement the mobile coverage. However, it should be secure and offer a high level of performance, with fast speeds and low latency. With secure and seamless public Wi-Fi coverage in the 10 3property, consumers can avail the data and voice service. The goal is to assess Wi- Fi coverage in non-public areas, such as residential flats, enterprise workspaces, executive offices, lifts, basements, conference rooms, etc. These areas require reliable, high-speed, and encrypted Wi-Fi connectivity to support business operations, data security, and seamless enterprise communication. ii. Assessment Methodology: To evaluate compliance with this sub-criterion, the following steps will be undertaken: a. Identify all non-public areas within the property where Wi-Fi services are provided. b. Conduct sample WPA2/WPA3 compliance checks for security. c. Conduct coverage, speed and latency tests covering peak hours using industry standard tools. iii. Supporting documents: a. Wi-Fi Coverage Maps: Diagrams or heatmaps showing Wi-Fi coverage across the property in non-public areas, highlighting areas with weak or strong signals. b. Speed Test Results: Logs of speed and latency test results from different locations and times, demonstrating network reliability. c. Wi-Fi Security Audit Reports: Reports confirming compliance with WPA2/ WPA3 security standards, network authentication mechanisms, and encryption configurations. iv. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance Item description requirement (Upload/ No. (Yes/ No) DCRA level) Wi-Fi security 1. Record certifications Wi-Fi coverage maps 2. and speed test Record and Upload results Table 5.38: Compliance checklist 10 4v. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 85% of non- public areas (including lifts and basements) of the 1. 5 property with minimum download speed of 20 Mbps in peak hours If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 75% of non-public areas (including lifts and basements) of the 2. 3 property with minimum download speed of 20 Mbps in peak hours If secure Wi-Fi coverage is available in more than 65% of non-public areas (including lifts and basements) of the 3. 2 property with minimum download speed of 20 Mbps in peak hours Table 5.39: Scoring criteria Note: Download speed to be tested through TRAI App. 5.6.5. Sub-Criteria: Average download speed of different wireline network(s) in respective highest speed plan (Weightage – 5) i. Objective: The objective of this sub-criterion is to assess the highest average download speed supported by different wireline networks or service providers under their offered plans in the property. ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Conduct speed tests using standard tools (TRAI My Speed App). Conduct tests during peak traffic hour(s) at least at five different user locations. b. Compare results against advertised speeds under highest plan by respective ISP in highest tier plans. Compare actual speed test results with these promised speeds. c. Supporting documents: Speed test results with timestamps. iii. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: 10 5Record maintenance S. Item Compliance requirement (Upload/ No. description (Yes/ No) DCRA level) 1. Speed test results with Record and Upload timestamps Table 5.40: Compliance checklist iv. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. Weightage Compliance Requirement No. If download speed of any wireline network is more than 1. 5 500 Mbps If the download speed of any wireline network is more 2. 3 than 250 Mbps If the download speed of any wireline network is more 3. 2 than 100 Mbps Table 5.41: Scoring criteria 5.7. User Experience (Weightage - 10) User experience assesses user feedback on digital connectivity, including network reliability, speed, latency, and ease of access. It considers factors like seamless browsing, streaming quality and minimal disruptions. A positive experience indicates robust connectivity, while frequent issues highlight areas for improvement. 5.7.1. Sub-Criteria: User feedback on digital connectivity experience (Weightage – 10) i. Objective: The objective of this sub-criterion is to collect and analyze user feedback regarding their experience with mobile, wireline, and Wi-Fi services in a property. User insights help assess the real-world performance of the digital connectivity infrastructure, identify gaps in service quality and drive improvements to enhance the overall connectivity experience. 10 6ii. Assessment Methodology: a. Conduct structured surveys capturing user satisfaction on voice call quality, voice call accessibility, voice call retainability, data speed (wireline and wireless), latency, service uptime and coverage. b. The feedback should be collected from a minimum of 10% of the users of the property if the total users are less than 1000. In case total users are more than 1000, then feedback may be collected from a minimum of 100 users. The users in survey should be distributed across gender and broad adult age groups. iii. Supporting documents: 1. User feedback form (please refer to Appendix section for the indicative feedback form). iv. Compliance checklist: The DCRAs shall prepare and maintain the compliance summary in the following format: Record maintenance S. Compliance requirement Item description No. (Yes/ No) (Upload/ DCRA level) 1. User feedback form Record and Upload Table 5.42: Compliance checklist v. Scoring criteria: The DCRA shall award score against this sub-criterion as follows: S. No. Weightage Compliance Requirement If 80% of users provide overall positive experience for 1. 10 digital connectivity in the property If 70% of users provide overall positive experience for 2. 8 digital connectivity in the property If 50% of users provide overall positive experience 3. 6 for digital connectivity in the property If 40% of users provide overall positive experience for 4. 4 digital connectivity in the property Table 5.43: Scoring criteria 10 75.8. Summary of Rating Score After assessing and scoring against each criterion and sub-criteria as per assessment methodology, the DCRA shall prepare the summary of rating score in following format for final updating in the rating platform for generating the rating certificate: Sub Score Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria awarded No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage by [d] DCRA 5.1.1 Redundancy of Provision in 2 power source power 5.1.2 UPS power backup infrastructure 4 for DCI 5.1 for ensuring 10 5.1.3 Power continuity reliable 2 monitoring digital 5.1.4 Building connectivity 2 Management System 5.2.1 Availability of alternate entry paths for 3 digital connectivity Digital infrastructure Connectivity 5.2.2 Non-flooding 5.2 10 Infrastructure measures for DCI 3 Resilience installation 5.2.3 Implementation of redundancy in power 4 source and DCI paths 5.3.1 Availability of the Future latest generation of 4 Readiness of mobile connectivity 5.3 Digital 10 5.3.2 Support for future 3 Connectivity bands Infrastructure 5.3.3 Upgradability of 3 wireline DCI 5.4.1 Backhaul fibre Provision of connectivity (service 10 Wired 5.4 20 provider to property) Connectivity 5.4.2 Fibre connectivity infrastructure 5 till user premises 10 8Sub Score Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria awarded No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage by [d] DCRA 5.4.3 Fibre connectivity in each room or office or 5 commercial space 5.5.1 Number of wireline Internet Service providers having 7.5 integration with Digital Connectivity Availability of Infrastructure 5.5 Service 15 5.5.2 Number of Mobile Providers Service providers having coverage or integration 7.5 with Digital Connectivity Infrastructure 5.6.1 Mobile network coverage and 5 performance in public areas of property 5.6.2 Secure public Wi- Fi network coverage and 5 performance in public areas of property 5.6.3 Mobile network coverage and Service 5 5.6 25 performance in non- Performance public areas 5.6.4 Secure public Wi- Fi network coverage and 5 performance in non- public areas 5.6.5 Average download speed of different wireline network(s) in 5 respective highest speed plan 10 9Sub Score Criteria Criteria Weightage Sub-Criteria Criteria awarded No. [a] [b] [c] Weightage by [d] DCRA 5.7.1 User feedback on User 5.7 10 digital connectivity 10 Experience experience Table 5.44: Summary of Rating Score 11 06. Award of Rating and Renewal The Digital Connectivity Rating is a standardized measure used to evaluate the quality, reliability, and readiness of a property's digital infrastructure and on ground service performance. The rating process assesses multiple factors, including infrastructure, regulatory compliance, service performance, and user experience. Once the assessment is completed, a final rating is assigned, helping property owners, tenants, and service providers make informed decisions regarding digital connectivity in that location. The rating also plays a crucial role in attracting potential businesses and residents who prioritize seamless digital connectivity. Additionally, this rating is subject to renewal at periodic intervals, ensuring that properties maintain or improve their connectivity standards over time. 6.1. Classification of Ratings Following the detailed assessment process outlined in Section 4 of this manual, a cumulative score is assigned to each property. Based on this score, a corresponding Digital Connectivity Rating from 1 star to 5 star is awarded, which serves as an indicator of the property's readiness to support high-speed and reliable digital services. Digital Connectivity Rating to be S. No. Score Range awarded 1. 25-40 2. 41-55 3. 56-70 4. 71-85 5. More than 85 Table 6.1: Rating Scorecard 6.2. Validity Period of Ratings The validity period refers to the duration for which a property’s Digital Connectivity Rating remains effective before requiring reassessment and renewal. The difference in validity periods between categories is likely based on factors such as: 11 1i. Infrastructure Stability – Well-equipped properties with robust digital infrastructure may have longer validity periods. ii. Usage and Demand – Properties with higher connectivity demands may require more frequent reassessments. iii. Regulatory Compliance – Changes in technology standards and regulations may impact validity duration. The validity period for Category ‘A’ Category and ‘B’ properties shall be as prescribed by the Authority from the date of issue of the rating certificate. 6.3. Reassessment Process To ensure the continued accuracy and relevance of digital connectivity ratings, DCRA provides a structured mechanism for property managers to apply for re-rating within the validity period of the existing digital connectivity rating certificate (Regulation 29). This process enables properties to reflect infrastructure upgrades, technological advancements, and regulatory compliance improvements, ensuring that the rating remains aligned with the latest connectivity standards. 6.3.1. Eligibility Criteria for Re-rating A property shall be eligible for re-rating under the following circumstances: i. Full upgrade of Digital connectivity infrastructure (DCI): If a property has undergone a comprehensive enhancement of its telecom infrastructure, the property manager may seek re-rating to reflect the improvements. Such upgrades may include: a. Expansion of fiber optic networks. b. Installation of in-building solutions to improve indoor coverage. c. Enhancement of power backup systems for digital infrastructure to ensure. seamless connectivity. d. Integration of smart network management systems. ii. Technological upgradation leading to demand for Re-rating by end users: If there has been a significant upgrade in the technology deployed at the property and end users or tenants demand a reassessment, a re-rating may be considered. Examples of such technological advancements include: a. Deployment of 5G, Wi-Fi or high-speed fiber networks to enhance connectivity. b. Significant improvements in broadband speed, latency, and network resilience. c. Implementation of next-generation digital services, such as IoT-enabled automation. 11 2d. Increased demand for an upgraded rating due to expanding digital service requirements from occupants, enterprises or businesses operating within the property. iii. Other changes affecting the rating as per regulatory criteria If any modifications or improvements impact the property’s compliance with DCRA rating parameters, a re-rating application may be submitted. Such changes may include: a. Increase in the number of telecom service providers offering wired or wireless services at the property b. Upgraded compliance with Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL) and National Building Code (NBC) for digital infrastructure c. Expansion of telecom facilities to previously underserved areas within the property, ensuring enhanced access d. Improvement in service reliability, redundancy, and fault tolerance mechanisms 6.4. Renewal Process To ensure the continuity of a property’s digital connectivity rating, DCRA mandates that property managers apply for renewal of their rating before its expiry. The renewal process ensures that properties continue to meet the regulatory, technical, and service performance standards required for maintaining their digital connectivity classification (Regulation 19). The property manager may apply for renewal of ratings well in advance for continuity of rating for the property. 6.4.1. Application Timeline and Submission A property manager who intends to renew the digital connectivity rating certificate for a property under their ownership, control, or management must submit a renewal application on the rating platform at least 120 days prior to the expiry of the existing rating. This advance submission ensures sufficient time for assessment, verification, and issuance of the renewed certificate without any lapse in rating status. The renewal application may include: i. Any changes or upgrades made to the digital connectivity infrastructure since the last assessment. ii. A self-declaration of continued compliance with the applicable Model Building Bye- Laws (MBBL), National Building Code (NBC), and DCRA guidelines. iii. Payment of the renewal processing fee as per the prescribed schedule. 11 3The application for renewal shall be made through the rating platform. 6.4.2. Assessment and Verification Process Upon receiving the renewal request, DCRA will undertake a comprehensive reassessment to verify that the property still meets the required connectivity standards. The assessment process shall be similar to that followed for award of ratings first time and may inter-alia include: i. Review of documentation: Validation of submitted records, compliance reports, and service provider agreements. ii. Infrastructure inspection: A physical or digital audit of the property’s telecom infrastructure, ensuring continued adherence to the original rating criteria. iii. Performance evaluation: Assessment of service reliability, network availability, user feedback, and any upgrades implemented since the last rating period. iv. Regulatory compliance check: Verification of compliance with MBBL, NBC, and other applicable digital infrastructure standards. If the property meets or exceeds the required standards, the Digital Connectivity Rating Certificate will be renewed for the next validity period. 6.4.3. Renewal Outcome and Rating Status The property will receive a renewed rating certificate, valid for the next certification cycle, with updated documentation reflecting the latest assessment. 11 47. Reporting and Feedback Mechanism A well-defined stakeholder reporting and feedback mechanism is essential for maintaining transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement in the digital connectivity rating process for properties. This mechanism ensures that all stakeholders, including property managers, telecom service providers, infrastructure providers, and end users have a structured platform to report issues against the rated, provide feedback, and suggest improvements to the property manager related to digital connectivity within rated properties. 7.1. Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism DCRA is responsible for overseeing feedback and complaints related to the ratings awarded to properties throughout the rating certificate’s validity as per following provisions regulation 11. i. “Every DCRA shall monitor feedback or complaints received from service providers or end users during the validity of the rating certificate of the properties, as received through the rating platform, concerning the ratings awarded by DCRA. ii. Every DCRA shall examine feedback or complaints received under sub-regulation (1) and evaluate the need for either review of rating awarded or corrective actions required by the property manager and take follow up action with the property manager, if required, for resolving such identified issues.” 7.2. Mechanism for Stakeholder Feedback A standardized feedback mechanism will be provided in the rating platform to enable feedback-based oversight on the status of digital connectivity in rated properties during validity of ratings. Stakeholder feedback will be made available to the concerned property manager and DCRA against each rated property. The stakeholders will be required to validate themselves to submit feedback through the platform. The feedback from the stakeholders shall be supported with relevant evidence(s). The high-level approach for feedback lifecycle will include: i. Feedback Categories: a. Connectivity Performance: Reports on issues such as poor network coverage, insufficient infrastructure, or slow internet speeds. b. Infrastructure Gaps: Identification of areas requiring upgrades to meet TRAI standards. c. General Suggestions: Recommendations to improve the overall framework and efficiency. 11 5ii. Feedback Processing and Resolution by property manager: a. Acknowledgment: Feedback will be acknowledged automatically by rating platform. b. Review and evaluation: All feedback received during a month/ quarter (based on volume of feedback or issues) will be reviewed by the property manager for evaluation of any corrective action required. In case any corrective action is proposed, it will be updated on the rating platform for information of concerned stakeholders. In addition, property managers may also use other channels of communication for this purpose. iii. Yearly review of stakeholder feedback by DCRA: DCRA shall review the issues and feedback reported by stakeholders at least on a yearly basis from the date of issue of rating certificate. However, in the case of large number of feedback/complaints for any rated property, DCRA shall undertake review as per requirement or as directed by the Authority. The summary report of such reviews covering analysis of feedback, conclusion and recommended actions by the property manager, if any, shall be uploaded against each property. iv. Corrective action by the property manager: The property manager concerned shall take corrective action, if any recommended by DCRA, in a time-bound manner within the timelines suggested by the DCRA. The action taken report by the property manager shall be uploaded against the property for review by the DCRA and closure of observations. 7.3. Addressing Non-Compliance Any instance of non-compliance by the property manager or DCRA shall be dealt in accordance with the provisions of the regulations. 11 68. Appeal Process To uphold transparency, fairness, and accountability, the rating framework provides a structured appeal process for property managers who wish to challenge their assigned rating. This section details the procedures, timelines, and regulatory provisions governing appeals, ensuring they are handled promptly and impartially. The appeal process, under regulation 27, offers property managers a formal mechanism to request a review of their rating if they believe the assessment does not accurately represent the digital connectivity infrastructure of their property. 8.1. Filing of Appeal by Property Manager Property managers who are dissatisfied with the Digital Connectivity Rating assigned to their property by DCRA may file an appeal through the rating platform. The appeal process ensures a fair opportunity for property managers to challenge their rating based on valid concerns and supporting evidence. The appeal must be submitted within 30 days of the date of issuance of the rating certificate as per the sub-clause (1) of regulation 27. The appeal justification may include the following: i. Justification for the appeal, citing specific criteria and sub-criteria that require reconsideration. ii. Supporting documentation, technical reports, or third-party assessments validating the concerns raised. iii. Any additional evidence demonstrating improvements in digital connectivity infrastructure that may not have been considered during the initial rating assessment. 8.2. Review of Appeal by DCRA Once an appeal is submitted, the Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) concerned will conduct a review of the rating assessment against indicated criteria or sub-criteria under appeal. DCRA shall evaluate the grounds of appeal, verify the submitted evidence, and, if necessary, conduct a re-evaluation of the property’s connectivity infrastructure for respective parameter(s) as may be required. A final decision on the appeal will be made within 60 days of receipt of the appeal, following the process outlined by the Authority. If the review finds merit in the appeal, DCRA may: i. Revise the rating based on newly presented evidence. ii. Uphold the original rating if no discrepancies or new qualifying factors are identified. 11 7iii. Recommend corrective actions to the property manager for potential re-rating in the future. 8.3. Escalation of Appeal to the Authority If the property manager is still not satisfied with the decision of the DCRA, they may escalate the appeal to the Telecom Regulatory Authority. i. The escalation must be filed within 30 days from the date of DCRA’s appeal decision. ii. The appeal must be submitted in the prescribed format and include all necessary documentation. iii. A specified fee, as determined by the Authority, must accompany the appeal submission. iv. No appeal shall be entertained by the Authority after expiry of the period as provided under the regulations. 8.4. Examination of Appeal by Authority Upon receiving an escalated appeal, the Telecom Regulatory Authority will conduct an independent review to ensure that the final decision is fair and justified. i. Independent Case Assessment: The Authority may directly evaluate the case based on submitted evidence and regulatory provisions. ii. Expert Panel Review: The Authority may appoint a specialized panel of experts to conduct a detailed examination and provide recommendations. The Authority shall ensure that all relevant technical, regulatory, and procedural aspects are evaluated before making a final decision. 11 89. Review and Updates of Rating Manual To ensure that the Digital Connectivity Rating Manual remains relevant, accurate, and aligned with industry advancements, a structured review and update process will be undertaken at regular intervals. This process will account for technological evolution, regulatory changes, stakeholder feedback, and performance insights, ensuring that the rating framework remains effective in assessing and improving digital connectivity in properties. 9.1. Process for Periodic Updates To maintain the relevance, accuracy, and effectiveness of the rating manual for digital connectivity inside properties, periodic updates will be conducted through a structured and inclusive approach. The process begins with stakeholder feedback collection, where inputs from key entities such as property managers, DCRAs, telecom service providers, infrastructure providers, and technical experts are gathered. This helps identify gaps, challenges, and areas for improvement in existing rating criteria. Based on insights from stakeholder feedback and benchmarking, a draft revision of the manual will be developed, incorporating necessary modifications and refinements. This draft will then undergo validation through expert reviews, where subject matter specialists will assess the proposed changes to ensure technical accuracy, regulatory compliance, and feasibility of implementation. This structured process guarantees that the rating manual remains adaptive, future-ready, and reflective of the latest industry advancements, thereby promoting high-quality, resilient, and future-proof digital connectivity infrastructure in properties. 11 910. Best Practices for Digital Connectivity in Properties To ensure high-quality, resilient, and future-ready digital connectivity in properties, a structured set of guidelines and best practices help to minimize cost, improve aesthetics and improve user experience. These best practices are indicative in nature to help property managers, infrastructure providers, and telecom service providers in designing and implementing digital connectivity solutions that meet current and future technological requirements while ensuring seamless user experience. 10.1. Best Practices for Digital Connectivity To ensure high-quality digital connectivity in properties, the following best practices should be adopted: i. Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Planning Digital connectivity infrastructure should be planned right from the building design stage like plan for water, fire system and electricity. Incorporating digital connectivity infrastructure during the initial design phase of a property is critical for seamless deployment of broadband and wireless technologies while reducing considerable cost compared to retrofitting of DCI. Key considerations include: a. Conduit and Cable Pathways: Ensuring dedicated and well-structured pathways for fiber optic and ethernet cables, avoiding bottlenecks and future installation challenges. b. Dedicated Telecom Spaces: Allocating sufficient space for telecom rooms, network equipment and distribution points within the building. c. Regulatory Compliance: Aligning digital connectivity infrastructure with Model Building Byelaws (MBBL), National Building Code (NBC), and telecom regulations to avoid future rework or legal issues. d. Collaboration with Telecom Service Providers: Engaging with telecom service providers and DCI design experts in early in the project to ensure optimal network design. The National Building Code may be referred to for further details which provides detailed guidelines for planning digital connectivity/ ICT infrastructure in the buildings. 12 0ii. High Speed Internet Readiness: To meet the increasing demand for high-speed, low-latency internet, properties should: a. Deploy fiber optic backbone connectivity as the primary infrastructure for internet distribution. Fiber-optic networks offer higher bandwidth capacity, faster speeds, and lower latency compared to traditional copper-based networks. b. Ensure multiple fiber entry points in the property to enable connectivity from different ISPs, increasing network resilience and competition-driven pricing benefits for end-users. c. Provision scalable bandwidth options to accommodate future demands, ensuring seamless support for 5G, IoT, AI applications, and cloud services. d. Implement structured cabling systems (Category 6/6A and fiber optic cabling) for internal network distribution, ensuring high-speed connectivity across all areas of the property. iii. Wireless Network Optimization Wireless connectivity plays a pivotal role in digital infrastructure, and optimized in-building solutions are essential for ensuring uninterrupted coverage and high- speed connectivity. Key strategies include: a. Distributed antenna systems (DAS): Deploying DAS solutions to enhance cellular coverage in large properties, high-rise apartments, and commercial spaces, eliminating dead zones. b. Small cells deployment: Installing small cell technology in dense urban environments to boost wireless network capacity, particularly for 4G and 5G networks. c. Wi-Fi offloading and optimization: Implementing high-density Wi-Fi solutions to offload mobile data traffic, ensuring optimal indoor coverage and performance. d. Intelligent network management: Leveraging AI-driven self-optimizing networks (SON) to dynamically adjust power levels, frequencies, and coverage areas for enhanced user experience. 12 1iv. Redundancy and Resilience To prevent service disruptions and downtime, properties must integrate robust redundancy and resilience measures in their digital connectivity infrastructure. These include: a. Multiple ISP Connections: Establishing connectivity from two or more internet service providers to ensure a failover in case of a primary network outage. b. Backup Power Supply: Ensuring continuous operation of network equipment through uninterrupted power supply (UPS)/ battery backups, and generators. c. Alternate Routing Paths: Designing redundant cable pathways to prevent single points of failure, ensuring continuous connectivity even in case of fiber cuts or infrastructure damage. d. Disaster Recovery Plans: Implementing automated failover mechanisms to restore network swiftly after failures. v. Smart Building Integration Smart buildings integrate IoT-enabled sensors, automation, and AI-driven management systems to enhance connectivity performance, energy efficiency, and security. Key aspects include: a. Smart network monitoring: Using AI-powered network analytics to detect anomalies, optimize bandwidth allocation, and proactively resolve connectivity issues. b. Energy efficient networking: Utilizing power-saving features in network devices and employing smart energy management systems to reduce operational costs and environmental impact. c. Integration with Smart Building Management Systems (BMS): Enabling real-time control of network operations through a centralized BMS for efficient fault detection and system management. vi. Future Proofing Properties must be designed with future-ready digital connectivity infrastructure to support emerging technologies and next-generation network advancements. Future- proofing measures include: a. 5G ready infrastructure: Deploying fiber-based backhaul and small cell solutions to accommodate 5G deployment within buildings. 12 2b. Edge computing integration: Ensuring support for edge data centers within properties to minimize latency and improve data processing for smart applications, AR/VR, and AI-driven analytics. c. IPv6 adoption: Implementing IPv6-compliant networks to accommodate the growing number of connected devices and ensure future scalability. 10.2. Integration of Connectivity Infrastructure in Design and Construction To achieve seamless integration of digital connectivity infrastructure in building design and construction, following may be considered: i. Pre-wiring for connectivity: Include dedicated ducts and cable trays for fiber, ethernet, and power cables. ii. Structured cabling standards: Adopt structured cabling solutions in compliance with national standards of BIS, TEC, etc. iii. Equipment rooms and space allocation: Allocate space for telecom equipment, server rooms, and network operation centers within the building. iv. Network equipment: Plan sufficient network equipment in common areas, lobbies, workspaces, and residences to ensure seamless connectivity based on expected footfall and traffic. 10.3. Collaboration with stakeholders Property managers should collaborate with concerned stakeholders right from planning stage to build resilient and future ready DCI in the properties and facilitate RoW permissions for telecom, internet service providers and digital connectivity infrastructure providers to deploy fiber and wireless solutions efficiently. Collaboration with end users and understanding their needs is the best way to plan and deliver digital connectivity infrastructure which meets the expectations. 12 312 411. Appendix 11.1. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) i. 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. ii. 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. iii. 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 the 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. iv. Who benefits from this rating system? i. Property Managers: Gain recognition and competitive advantage by providing high-quality digital infrastructure. 12 5ii. 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. v. 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. vi. What types of properties are covered under the rating framework? The rating framework applies to all property 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 vii. What challenges might property managers face in achieving higher ratings? Property managers 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. 12 6viii. 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 properties. ix. How can property manager 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. x. 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. www.trai.gov.in. xi. 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. xii. 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 12 7ii. Energy-efficient network equipment iii. Seamless integration of IoT devices and 5G networks This fosters a more competitive and technology-driven property development. 11.2. List of Applicable Standards and References i. TRAI Regulation on Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity,2024 ii. National Building Code, 2016 as amended from time to time. iii. Addendum to Model Building Bye Laws (MBBL) iv. Building Bye-laws applicable in the respective State/Union Territory 11.3. Documents Checklist Master checklist of supporting documents from property manager to be recorded and uploaded by Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) as applicable depending upon the category of property i.e. Category ‘A’ or Category ‘B’ is as follows: Record maintenance S. Criteria Sub Criteria Supporting document evidence requirement No. (Upload/ DCRA level) Approved DCI design documents by Record and 1 Approved competent authority Upload Digital Design compliance with MBBL and 2 Connectivity Record Compliance to NBC standards Infrastructure Applicable (DCI) design Design drawings certified by 3 Model Record competent authority Building Bye Laws (MBBL) As-build DCI is as per approved Record and 4 and National design Upload Building Code Record and 5 (NBC) for DCI Photographs of DCI Upload implementation Digital as per approved Connectivity Site inspection reports for DCI with 6 Record DCI design design comparisons Testing and Commissioning 7 Record certificates for DCI as applicable Provision in Provision for Building layout plans for DCI or ICT Record and 8 Civil expansion of infrastructure duly marked and Upload 12 8Record maintenance S. Criteria Sub Criteria Supporting document evidence requirement No. (Upload/ DCRA level) Infrastructure, telecom rooms signed by DCRA and property over and and cable manager above MBBL pathways and NBC Expansion feasibility reports – DCI 9 requirements, or ICT infrastructure pathways and Record for Ensuring telecom rooms Robust Digital Provision for 10 Connectivity Updated network diagrams Record expansion of mobile and wireline 11 Future expansion plans Record connectivity Site photos showing maintenance 12 Ease of access Record pathways of DCI installed for repair or 13 maintenance Maintenance checklists Record 14 Power layout diagrams Record Redundancy of Provision in power source 15 Load switchover testing reports Record Power Infrastructure, Electrical system line diagram over and 16 including redundant input sources Record above MBBL and UPS system(s) or NBC Whether all key DCI systems requirements, 17 affecting service availability are on Record for Ensuring UPS power UPS? Reliable backup for DCI Whether UPS system has 18 Digital Record redundancy? Connectivity UPS switch over successfully tested 19 Record during sample testing? 12 9Record maintenance S. Criteria Sub Criteria Supporting document evidence requirement No. (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether duration of UPS backup 20 matches with available test reports Record with full DCI load? Monitoring system high level Record and 21 diagram Upload Power Capture monitoring system Record and 22 continuity dashboard screenshot Upload monitoring Record and 23 Monitoring system diagram Upload 24 BMS system architecture diagrams Record Test report on DCI power systems, 25 Building fire alarms and HVAC integration Record Management with BMS System Sample test report on detection and notification of main power supply 26 Record failure and takeover by generator/UPS for DCI Ducts layout diagrams from different 27 Record Availability of external entry points for fiber/ DCI alternate entry paths for digital Digital connectivity Connectivity infrastructure Pathway layout diagrams from ducts 28 Record Infrastructure to telecom room(s) for fiber/ DCI Resilience Non-flooding Whether DCI/telecom room(s) are 29 measures for above ground floor as per design and Record DCI installation implementation? 13 0Record maintenance S. Criteria Sub Criteria Supporting document evidence requirement No. (Upload/ DCRA level) Whether key power systems like UPS/ Generators for DCI are 30 Record installed on ground or higher floor with non-flooding consideration? Whether drainage system is 31 Record implemented as per design layout? Whether DCI is supported with 32 redundant power sources Record (Generator/UPS)? Whether power system network 33 layout for DCI is implemented with Record path diversity? Implementation of redundancy in power source Whether sample test reports 34 and DCI paths Record demonstrate testing of redundancy? Whether path diversity for fiber and other cables (DTH/ethernet as applicable) across the building 35 Record blocks, basements and towers from digital connectivity infrastructure room(s) is implemented? Future Availability of Readiness of the latest Whether the equipment installed 36 Digital generation of supports the latest generation of Record Connectivity mobile mobile connectivity? Infrastructure connectivity 13 1Record maintenance S. Criteria Sub Criteria Supporting document evidence requirement No. (Upload/ DCRA level) Photographs of installed latest 37 generation mobile connectivity Record equipment Bill of Material (BoM) installed at 38 building along with datasheets for Record Support for relevant equipment future bands Whether DCI supports future bands 39 for mobile or Wi-Fi network as Record applicable as per datasheets? Upgradability of existing wireline DCI equipment’s 40 Record (switches/routers/splitters/PON Upgradability etc.) and relevant cables of wireline DCI Whether the bandwidth supported 41 through optical fiber with speed 1 Record Gbps or higher? Backhaul fiber 42 Fiber testing results Record connectivity (service Photographs of fiber termination Record and 43 provider to point at main telecom room Upload property) Fiber layout diagrams up to user Record and 44 Provision of Fiber premises Upload Wired connectivity till Sample fiber test reports confirming Record and 45 Connectivity user premises connectivity to each user premise Upload Infrastructure Fiber Network layout diagram for user 46 Record connectivity in units showing fiber terminations each room or office or Sample test reports for fiber Record and 47 commercial terminations testing Upload space Number of Telecom/Internet Service Provider 48 Record wireline (ISP) Agreements 13 2Record maintenance S. Criteria Sub Criteria Supporting document evidence requirement No. (Upload/ DCRA level) Internet Service Network integration certificates/test 49 Record providers reports having integration with 50 Digital Service subscription status Record Connectivity Availability of Infrastructure Service Number of RF coverage map in the property or Record and 51 Providers Mobile Service walk/drive test results Upload providers Network performance test results 52 having coverage Record from multiple operators or integration with Digital Agreements signed with Telecom 53 Connectivity Service Providers (without Record Infrastructure commercial details) Record and 54 RF coverage map of public areas Upload Mobile network coverage and performance in public areas of property Service Speed test logs and call quality Record and 55 Performance reports Upload Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and Wi-Fi coverage maps and speed test Record and 56 performance in results Upload public areas of property 13 3Record maintenance S. Criteria Sub Criteria Supporting document evidence requirement No. (Upload/ DCRA level) Record and 57 Wi-Fi security audit reports Upload Record and 58 RF coverage map of areas under test Upload Mobile network coverage and performance in non-public areas Speed test logs and call setup and Record and 59 call quality reports Upload 60 Wi-Fi security certifications Record Secure public Wi-Fi network coverage and performance in non-public areas Wi-Fi coverage maps and speed test Record and 61 results Upload 13 4Record maintenance S. Criteria Sub Criteria Supporting document evidence requirement No. (Upload/ DCRA level) Average download speed of different wireline Record and 62 Speed test results with timestamps network(s) in Upload respective highest speed plan User feedback User on digital User feedback logs from helpdesk Record and 63 Experience connectivity systems Upload experience 13 511.4. User Feedback Form This form is to evaluate the feedback of end user/ consumer on digital connectivity experience in the property. Your feedback will help in assessing the level of digital connectivity inside the property for award of Star rating under TRAI regulations. (a) Name of property: __________, (b) URIN (As per rating portal):_________ (c) Type of property: ☐ Residential ☐ Commercial ☐ Government Properties ☐ Shopping malls ☐ Convention Centre ☐ Hospitality (To be filled by DCRA) Kindly provide your feedback on the scale of 1-5 by writing relevant number in the box against respective questions. Score 1 (poor) being the lowest, 2 (average), 3 (good), 4 (very good) and 5 (Excellent) being the highest. Provide rating between 1 to 5 1. Mobile Service Performance i. How would you rate your mobile voice call experience? ii. Are you satisfied with mobile internet performance? 2. Broadband Service Performance i. How would you rate the ease of provisioning of new broadband connections? ii. How satisfied are you with the speed of the internet connection? iii. How will you rate the resolution mechanism? 3. Mobile Network Coverage i. How would you rate the wireless network coverage in indoor spaces? ii. How would you rate the wireless network coverage in outdoor areas? 4. Overall Experience i. How would you rate the overall digital connectivity at this property? 5. Suggestions for Improvement Signature of the end user/ consumer Signature of DCRA representative Name : Mobile No. : Email-ID : 13 611.5. Template for declaration of maximum chargeable fee by DCRA (As per regulation) The below table covers the template for declaration of maximum chargeable fee by Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) as per the Section – I “Code of Conduct for DCRAs” clause (vii) “Clear fee structure” in the “Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024”: Maximum Built up Area Category Type of chargeable S. in sq.ft./ Classification or Property fee by No. length in km Group DCRA (in ₹) 50,000 - 100,000 sq.ft. Apartments, >100,000 - independent 500,000 sq.ft. 1. Residential A houses, gated >500,000 - communities or 1000,000 sq.ft. societies, etc. >1000,000 sq.ft. All properties of 50,000 - the Central 100,000 sq.ft. Government, the >100,000 - State Government, 500,000 sq.ft. Government 2. A Courts, Public >500,000 - Properties Sector 1000,000 sq.ft. Undertakings, >1000,000 Local Bodies, sq.ft. Heritage Sites, etc. Commercial office 50,000 - complex, shopping 100,000 sq.ft. malls, industrial >100,000 - Commercial estates, SEZs, 500,000 sq.ft. 3. A Establishments multi-modal >500,000 - logistic parks, 1000,000 sq.ft. convention >1000,000 centres, etc. sq.ft. Airport, Bus 50,000 - Other private Station, Railway 100,000 sq.ft. 4. B or public areas Station, Hospitals, >100,000 - Hotels, 500,000 sq.ft. 13 7Maximum Built up Area Category Type of chargeable S. in sq.ft./ Classification or Property fee by No. length in km Group DCRA (in ₹) Educational >500,000 - Institutions, etc. 1000,000 sq.ft. >1000,000 sq.ft. 50,000 - Stadiums or 100,000 sq.ft. Stadiums or permanent spaces >100,000 - Sport Arenas or of gathering with 500,000 sq.ft. 5. spaces of B seating capacity of >500,000 - frequent more than 5000 1000,000 sq.ft. gathering persons >1000,000 sq.ft. Expressways, 100-500 km Transport Highways, 6. B >500-1000 km corridors Railways routes, etc. >1000 km 13 8