India’s transformation into a digital powerhouse is one of the most remarkable stories of the 21st century. From an era when internet penetration was limited to urban centers, the nation now counts over 1 billion internet subscribers as of April–June 2025. This growth has been central to India’s economic rise, innovation ecosystem, and societal progress. Yet, the digital divide persists—especially in remote villages, islands, border regions, and hilly terrains where terrestrial networks face logistical and economic challenges. Satellite internet is emerging as the bridge to close this gap, ensuring the Digital India dream reaches every citizen.
Why Satellite Internet Matters
Satellite internet delivers connectivity directly from orbiting satellites—whether in geostationary orbits (GSO), or newer low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO) constellations. Unlike fiber or mobile towers, this system can cover the toughest terrains, enabling broadband access in places once considered unreachable. For a nation with vast geography and varied topography, it provides both technological flexibility and strategic resilience.
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized, “India’s progress in space is now directly contributing to making the lives of ordinary citizens easier.” That vision is now taking shape with the rapid evolution of satellite communication (SATCOM).
Major Developments and Achievements
India’s satellite internet story is fueled by both government initiatives and private sector participation:
· 1,002.85 million internet subscribers highlight India’s massive digital base.
· Rural penetration at 46 per 100 people shows the urgency of alternative technologies like satellite broadband.
· Space sector reforms since 2020 have allowed private players full participation, including up to 100% FDI.
· Over 10 global and domestic satellite operators, including licensed Starlink, Jio Satellite, and OneWeb India, have entered the market.
· India is transitioning from GEO-based systems to faster, low-latency LEO and MEO networks, aligning with global trends.
Together, these milestones reflect how satellite technology is no longer a distant concept but a mainstream pillar of connectivity.
Regulatory Framework: Enabling Innovation and Security
A robust policy ecosystem underpins this transformation.
· Department of Telecommunications (DoT): Grants authorizations under the Unified Licensing Regime for services like VSAT, GMPCS, and more. The Telecommunications Act, 2023 empowers spectrum allocation and ensures safeguards.
· TRAI: In May 2025, it recommended a five-year spectrum allocation window, extendable by two years, balancing market flexibility with regulatory stability.
· IN-SPACe: Acts as the nodal body between ISRO and private entities, authorizing and promoting space activities, while ensuring responsible use of resources.
· NSIL (New Space India Limited): The commercial arm of ISRO, managing 15 satellites and commissioning demand-driven missions like GSAT-24 for DTH and GSAT-20 for broadband, with GSAT-N3 scheduled for 2026.
This progressive framework ensures that innovation, investment, and national security coexist seamlessly.
Changing SATCOM Landscape
Historically reliant on ISRO’s GSAT fleet, India’s SATCOM sector is now diversifying with private sector-led LEO/MEO constellations. These systems promise low-latency, high-bandwidth connectivity, vital for real-time applications like video conferencing, telemedicine, disaster management, and defense communications.
India’s high-throughput satellites (HTS), including GSAT-11, GSAT-19, GSAT-29, and GSAT-20, further strengthen this ecosystem by delivering faster broadband through advanced spot-beam technology. Together with private constellations, they form a hybrid network that balances reach, reliability, and speed.
Government Programs for Inclusive Connectivity
The government is complementing space-driven initiatives with ground-based schemes:
· Digital India Fund (formerly USOF): Financing 4G towers in rural regions under the Saturation Project.
· Island Connectivity: The CTDP has doubled bandwidth for Andaman & Nicobar and expanded Lakshadweep’s capacity fivefold, blending submarine fiber with satellite backhaul.
· North Eastern Expansion: Nearly 2,500 towers commissioned by June 2025 to serve underserved villages and highways.
· National Broadband Mission 2.0: Launched in January 2025 to extend broadband to 1.7 lakh villages still unconnected.
· BharatNet Project: Connecting Gram Panchayats, with over 2.14 lakh already covered. Satellite links by BSNL and BBNL ensure coverage even in the toughest terrains.
· PM-WANI: Over 3.7 lakh public Wi-Fi hotspots installed, boosting affordable access.
These initiatives underscore the government’s intent to use both terrestrial and space-based systems to achieve universal digital access.
Industry Momentum and Global Participation
The entry of private operators such as Starlink in June 2025 has energized the market, while domestic giants like Jio and OneWeb are preparing to scale their services. With more than 10 satellite operators applying for authorizations, India is poised to become a hub for satellite broadband deployment in the coming years. This aligns with the broader national vision of “Developed India 2047”, where technology underpins inclusive growth.
Towards a Digitally Inclusive India
Satellite internet is not merely about improving connectivity—it is about transforming opportunities for millions of Indians. It enables students in remote villages to access online education, supports farmers with real-time weather data, strengthens border communications, and ensures resilience during natural disasters. By combining policy reforms, private participation, and indigenous capabilities, India is building a future-ready communication ecosystem.
As the country advances toward 2047, satellite internet will remain a cornerstone of Digital India, ensuring that no village, island, or individual is left behind in the nation’s digital revolution.
(With agency inputs)
