New Delhi: India has barred China-linked satellite operators from providing services within its broadcasting and communication networks, citing concerns over national security and digital sovereignty. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) have denied proposals from Chinese entities, including ChinaSat, ApStar, and Hong Kong-based AsiaSat, to offer satellite capacity to Indian broadcasters and teleport operators.
AsiaSat, which has served Indian broadcasters for over 30 years, has been permitted to continue using only two satellites, AS5 and AS7 until March 2026. After this deadline, all operations linked to these foreign satellites must cease. Major Indian broadcasters such as Zee and JioStar have already begun migrating their services to Indian GSAT satellites or to approved global networks like Intelsat to maintain uninterrupted transmission.
Officials said the decision aligns with India’s broader strategy to strengthen control over its communication infrastructure and reduce dependence on foreign systems, particularly from countries with which it shares strained geopolitical ties. The move also follows recent reforms requiring all foreign satellite operators to obtain explicit authorization from IN-SPACe before entering the Indian market.
Policy experts view this as part of India’s evolving framework on “digital sovereignty,” where the government seeks to enhance domestic capability and safeguard sensitive data flows. The transition also aligns with the country’s goal of expanding its space economy, projected to reach $44 billion by 2033.
By March 2026, all broadcasters in India will be required to fully transition to approved or indigenous satellite platforms, marking a shift toward a more secure and self-reliant satellite communication ecosystem.
Also Read:
Stakeholders Raise Alarm Over Meghalaya’s Umngot River Pollution, Seek Daily Monitoring of Projects
