Revolutionizing connectivity: How satellite communications can bridge India’s digital divide – Science News

As India races toward a digitally inclusive future, satellite communication (SATCOM) is emerging as a transformative tool to reach the country’s most remote corners. On the second day of the Indian Space Conclave, leaders across government and industry highlighted the critical role of SATCOM in complementing India’s existing telecom infrastructure.

Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani and TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti underscored how SATCOM could redefine connectivity across India, especially where terrestrial networks fall short.

“SATCOM is not just a tool; it’s a transformative force connecting households, villages, and every corner of our country,” said Dr. Pemmasani. He stated that satellite technology isn’t here to compete with ground networks but to expand access in ways previously unimaginable. With the new Telecommunications Act of 2023, which promotes private-sector participation, and India’s ambitious space policy, SATCOM is positioned to drive social and economic growth across underserved areas.

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Expanding Digital Access with Satellite Technology

Pemmasani’s remarks reflect a shift in India’s approach to connectivity, aiming to leverage satellite technology to support vital sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. With the country’s growing reliance on digital platforms, SATCOM offers unique advantages for rural regions where infrastructure challenges remain. “Integrating 5G and upcoming 6G technologies requires partnerships between the private sector and the government to build resilient networks,” he noted, adding that satellite technology could help India create a digitally inclusive society.

Lahoti echoed this view, explaining that SATCOM’s role in supporting backhaul for cellular and Wi-Fi networks is crucial. “India is making efforts in satellite communication to expand digital connectivity across the country, particularly in remote and underserved areas,” he shared. Lahoti highlighted the government’s steps toward creating a level playing field through the Indian Space Policy, which encourages private-sector engagement and innovation in non-terrestrial networks (NTNs). This policy, he said, supports the development of new use cases that could empower sectors like healthcare, education, and agriculture.

Policy and Private Sector Collaboration for Growth

The Telecommunications Act of 2023, with its “one nation, one authorization” framework, provides a unified structure for satellite telecom providers to operate nationwide. Lahoti explained that this policy not only facilitates market entry but also simplifies regulatory requirements, allowing for services from general mobile satellite communication (GMPCS) to emergency messaging. Such streamlined policies create an inviting environment for investment and innovation, according to Lahoti, setting a foundation for India’s satellite communication sector to flourish and address the connectivity gaps across the country.

Pawan Goenka, Chairman of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACE), pointed out that this shift in policy is helping build a robust private ecosystem. “The Rs 1,000 crore venture capital fund plays a crucial role in supporting startups and MSMEs that often struggle to access traditional funding,” he stated. Unlike grants, this fund focuses on equity investments, fostering accountability and pushing companies to demonstrate their market potential. Goenka noted that the initiative is intended to scale up over time, attracting greater private investment and encouraging innovation that will boost India’s position in global space technologies.

Developing a Future-Ready Workforce

Education and workforce development also took center stage during the conclave. Prof TG Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE, stressed the importance of aligning technical education with emerging fields in space and defence technologies. “To support India’s ambitious space missions, we must nurture engineers skilled in both traditional fields and emerging areas like data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity,” he explained. With partnerships involving ISRO and DRDO, AICTE is creating programs that provide students with the interdisciplinary skills needed for the evolving space sector.

Through these initiatives, AICTE aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry requirements, preparing a workforce ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities of India’s expanding space and satellite communications sectors.

The Global Context: India’s Role in Space Diplomacy

India’s active participation in international platforms, such as the World Radiocommunication Conference, demonstrates its commitment to global cooperation on space and telecommunications standards. Lahoti noted that India’s efforts to integrate IoT systems with mobile satellite networks highlight the country’s dedication to improving connectivity in remote regions. The upcoming WRC 2027 is expected to address spectrum management for NTNs, further supporting SATCOM’s integration into India’s telecom landscape.

Lt. Gen. A.K. Bhatt (Retd.), Director General of the Indian Space Association, emphasized that the government’s commitment to administrative spectrum allocation and SATCOM adoption could attract national and international investments. “These initiatives are creating an environment where India’s space and communication sector can thrive,” he said, reflecting on the positive impact of government support on the industry’s potential for growth and innovation.

Paving the Way for a Digitally Inclusive India

The discussions at the Indian Space Conclave underscored that satellite communication is more than just a technological tool; it’s a critical component in India’s vision for inclusive digital growth. As policies evolve and partnerships with the private sector deepen, SATCOM’s role in supporting India’s digital infrastructure will only expand.

The convergence of terrestrial and satellite networks offers a path to bridge India’s digital divide, making connectivity accessible to millions who have yet to experience the benefits of the digital revolution. With strategic investments, robust policy support, and an emphasis on innovation, India is on the path to a digitally inclusive future, where every corner of the country is connected and empowered.

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