π Indian Amateur Radio Callsign System
Understanding the Indian VU callsign allocation system, license grades, and recent format changes introduced in May 2025.
π Basic Format Structure
Prefix + License Grade Number + Individual Letters
Prefix
India's ITU allocation
Grade Number
License class indicator
Suffix
Individual identifier
π License Grades & Privileges
General Grade (VU2xxx)
Frequency Privileges
- β’ All amateur bands (HF, VHF, UHF, SHF)
- β’ 160m to 2.4 GHz and above
- β’ Full band segment access
- β’ DX and contest operation
Operating Modes
- β’ All modes: CW, SSB, FM, Digital
- β’ Maximum power allowed by band plan
- β’ Repeater operation permitted
- β’ Beacon and auxiliary station operation
Examples: VU2ABC, VU2XYZ, VU22DX (new format), VU22AB (new format)
Restricted Grade (VU3xxx)
Frequency Privileges
- β’ Limited VHF/UHF bands
- β’ 144-148 MHz (2 meters)
- β’ 420-450 MHz (70 cm)
- β’ Some microwave bands
Operating Modes
- β’ All modes on permitted bands
- β’ Limited power output
- β’ Local/regional communication focus
- β’ Repeater access permitted
Examples: VU3ABC, VU3XYZ, VU33DX (new format), VU33AB (new format)
ποΈ Special Territory Allocations
VU4xxx
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- β’ Unique territorial allocation
- β’ Both General and Restricted grades
- β’ Examples: VU4ABC, VU4XYZ
VU7xxx
Lakshadweep Islands
- β’ Unique territorial allocation
- β’ Both General and Restricted grades
- β’ Examples: VU7ABC, VU7XYZ
π New Format (May 2025 onwards)
Format Changes
- β’ Two-digit grade numbers (22, 33)
- β’ Two-letter suffix (instead of 2-3 letters)
- β’ Ensures sufficient unique callsigns
- β’ Maintains license grade indication
Examples
Note: Both old and new formats are valid. Existing licensees keep their current callsigns.
Common Misconceptions
β INCORRECT: "VU2 is for Northern India, VU3 is for Southern India"
β CORRECT: "VU2 is General Grade license, VU3 is Restricted Grade license"
Callsign allocation is based on license grade and examination performance, not geographical location within India.
π‘ SSID (Secondary Station Identifier)
What is SSID?
SSID allows multiple stations or operating modes under one callsign. Format: CALLSIGN-NUMBER
- β’ Range: -1 to -15
- β’ No SSID = -0 (implied)
- β’ Used for different stations/modes