At the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025, the Department of Space outlined India’s plan to expand its space economy to US $44 billion by 2033, anchored in satellite communications (satcom) and private-sector participation. The address emphasised that satcom is not merely a technological tool but a critical enabler of digital inclusion, linking rural regions to the national innovation ecosystem.
India has already launched 433 foreign satellites, earning US $190 million in revenue, and has opened the sector to new players through IN-SPACe and NSIL reforms. The roadmap extends to the planned Bharatiya Antariksh Station by 2035, a manned lunar mission by 2040, and deployment of 100+ satellites over the next 15 years. The policy vision links space applications to public service delivery — from banking and education to disaster response and tele-medicine — particularly for areas beyond terrestrial connectivity.
This vision places satcom at the intersection of space science, telecom, and inclusive governance. By treating space infrastructure as a public good, India aims to build a resilient digital ecosystem that supports equitable access and stimulates high-skill employment within its space value chain.
These long-term projections are now being operationalised through institutional steps such as the ₹900 crore National Satcom Monitoring Facility launched by the Ministry of Communications at IMC 2025. See companion Policy Bite.
What is Satcom? → Satellite communications (satcom) use orbiting satellites to relay signals between Earth-based stations, providing voice, data, and internet connectivity where ground networks cannot reach. Satcom is a cornerstone of India’s digital-inclusion strategy for its hilly, island, and border regions.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can India align its space-sector commercialisation with public service delivery goals so that the benefits of satcom reach rural and low-income users alongside strategic industries?
Follow the full release here: Dr Jitendra Singh addresses the ‘Satcom’ at India Mobile Congress 2025
