New Delhi, Sept 23 (NationPress) India stands as one of the world's rapidly expanding digital nations, with internet connectivity being a vital factor in its advancement. This growth is evidenced by the remarkable 1,002.85 million internet subscribers recorded from April to June 2025, underscoring the magnitude and influence of India's digital transformation, as stated in an official release on Tuesday.

Aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, satellite internet is becoming an essential facilitator of digital connectivity, providing dependable access to remote and underprivileged areas, while enhancing vital applications in defense and disaster management.

Rural internet penetration is around 46 subscribers per 100 population, emphasizing the necessity for satellite internet to narrow the digital gap, as mentioned in the statement.

India's broadband expansion is progressively driven by high-throughput satellites (HTS) developed by ISRO, utilizing advanced spot-beam technology for improved speed and capacity. The country operates a fleet of 19 communication satellites, including GSAT-19, GSAT-29, GSAT-11, and GSAT-N2, which are specifically designed to enhance India's broadband capabilities.

These satellites aim to improve internet access in underserved regions, facilitate in-flight communications, bolster defense networks, and aid in disaster response. Collectively, they constitute the foundation of satellite-based broadband infrastructure in India, complementing terrestrial networks like BharatNet.

India's satellite communication (Satcom) sector is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditionally reliant on the Geostationary Satellite (GSAT) of ISRO and other satellite operators, the field is now seeing increased private involvement and the integration of next-generation Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite systems. Recent reforms in the space sector have allowed for substantial private sector engagement in space endeavors. India is progressing towards LEO and MEO satellite internet solutions to offer faster and more reliable broadband services nationwide, serving as a pivotal element of Digital India, the statement elaborated.

More than 10 satellite operators, including the licensed Starlink, have begun operations in India, with the private sector permitted up to 100 percent FDI.

Nonetheless, internet access remains restricted in specific areas of the country, highlighting the ongoing need for satellite internet to supplement the existing networks.

Satellite internet refers to the web service delivered through satellites positioned in Geostationary Orbits (GSO) or Non-Geostationary Orbits (NGSO).

To fulfill the Digital India ambition of a digitally inclusive society, satellite internet emerges as a promising technology capable of providing connectivity from space to any location. This is especially beneficial for remote villages, rugged terrains, border regions, and islands where traditional internet services are challenging to implement or economically unfeasible.

Through the capabilities of space technology, India is strengthening its strategic independence and leadership in space-based communications, ensuring that connectivity benefits reach every citizen. By operationalizing HTS and enabling private sector engagement in satellite communications, the nation is making significant strides in overcoming its digital divide, the statement concluded.