BSNL Satellite Services

Satellite communications company Viasat, Inc has claimed to have demonstrated direct-to-device satellite connectivity in India for the first time in collaboration with state-owned telco BSNL. The direct-to-device connectivity allows commonly-used devices like mobile phones, smart watches, or cars; industrial machinery and transport operators to connect seamlessly to both terrestrial and satellite coverage without the need for dedicated hardware to connect to satellites. "In the trial, Viasat demonstrated two-way messaging and SoS messaging using a commercial Android smartphone enabled for non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity. The messages were sent roughly 36,000 km to one of Viasat's geostationary L-band satellites. The outcome proves satellite services to cell phone connectivity is technically feasible for Indian consumers and businesses using Viasat's satellite network," Viasat said in a statement. The company said working alongside partner BSNL, Viasat engineers successful

The state-owned firm was earlier supposed to start these services on behalf of MTNL from January 1, but was unable to do so due to some internal issues between the two companies

Under the deal, Hughes India supplied BSNL with satellite terminals and modems for voice, data, and video communications

At present, satellite phone services in India are being provided by Tata Communications Limited