- India has 1,002.85 million internet users; rural penetration is 46 per 100 population.
- Private sector can now participate fully in space activities, with 100% FDI allowed.
- India is shifting from GEO to LEO/MEO satellites for faster, low-latency internet.
- NSIL, IN-SPACe, DoT, and TRAI play crucial roles in the satellite communications ecosystem.
- Government initiatives like BharatNet, PM-WANI, CTDP, and NBM 2.0 are expanding digital access nationwide.
- High-throughput satellites are strengthening broadband, defence, disaster management, and remote connectivity.
Source: PIB
India’s space advancements are now directly transforming the lives of ordinary citizens by enhancing digital connectivity across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that India’s internet ecosystem is expanding rapidly, with 1,002.85 million internet subscribers as of April–June 2025. However, rural internet penetration remains around 46 subscribers per 100 people, emphasizing the need for satellite-based internet services to bridge the digital divide.
Reforms in the space sector have paved the way for private sector participation, enabling companies like Starlink, Jio Satellite Communications, and OneWeb India to provide satellite internet services. India is now shifting towards Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite systems to ensure faster and more reliable broadband access nationwide. Private players are permitted up to 100% foreign direct investment (FDI), reflecting India’s commitment to a digitally inclusive future.
Satellite Internet and Its Importance
Satellite internet uses satellites in Geostationary (GSO) or Non-Geostationary Orbits (NGSO) to provide broadband connectivity. This technology is vital for reaching remote villages, hilly terrains, islands, and border regions, where conventional internet services are either difficult or uneconomical.
India’s Regulatory Framework
The government has established a progressive policy framework for satellite communications to encourage private participation while maintaining security and efficient spectrum management.
Key agencies involved include:
| Agency | Role |
|---|---|
| Department of Telecommunications (DoT) | Grants authorisations under the Unified Licence Regime, regulates satellite services, ensures spectrum management. |
| Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) | Recommends spectrum assignment terms and conditions, including five-year tenure with possible extension. |
| Indian National Space Promotion & Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) | Interfaces between ISRO and private players, promotes and supervises non-governmental space activities. |
| New Space India Ltd. (NSIL) | Commercial arm of ISRO, operates 15 in-orbit satellites, manages satellite communications, and undertakes demand-driven missions (GSAT-N1, GSAT-N2, GSAT-N3). |
Transition to LEO and MEO Systems
India’s satellite communications are transitioning from traditional GSAT satellites to LEO (400–2,000 km altitude) and MEO (8,000–20,000 km altitude) satellites to achieve low-latency, high-bandwidth, and reliable connectivity. This shift is expected to provide seamless broadband services even in the most remote regions.
Government Initiatives for Inclusive Connectivity
| Initiative | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) | Funds 4G tower installation in rural areas, extending mobile and broadband coverage. |
| Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan (CTDP) for Islands | BSNL expanded satellite bandwidth in Andaman & Nicobar Islands (2 Gbps to 4 Gbps) and Lakshadweep (318 Mbps to 1.71 Gbps). |
| CTDP for North-Eastern Regions | 2,485 mobile towers commissioned, connecting 3,389 locations along National Highways. |
| National Broadband Mission 2.0 (NBM 2.0) | Aims to provide broadband to remaining 1.7 lakh villages; BharatNet project connects 2.14 lakh Gram Panchayats. |
| PM-WANI Wi-Fi Network | 3.73 lakh public Wi-Fi hotspots installed nationwide, providing affordable internet access. |
| MoES GIS-Based Decision Support System | Uses satellite data for early warning and disaster management. |
Key Satellites for Broadband Services
ISRO’s high-throughput satellites (HTS) like GSAT-19, GSAT-29, GSAT-11, and GSAT-N2 enhance broadband in underserved regions, support in-flight communication, defence networks, and disaster response.
Conclusion
India’s satellite internet ecosystem is transforming the nation’s digital landscape. Through private participation, LEO/MEO deployment, and strategic government initiatives, India is bridging the digital divide, extending connectivity to remote regions, and reinforcing its leadership in space-based communication. The vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 is taking shape as reliable satellite internet reaches every citizen, enabling socio-economic growth, disaster resilience, and national security.
Author
