India’s space and telecom sectors came together at the inaugural Satcom Summit, held as part of the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025 at Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in New Delhi. The event marked a defining moment in India’s digital journey, spotlighting the transformative potential of satellite communication (satcom) in bridging connectivity gaps and advancing nationwide digital inclusion.
Jointly organised by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), IMC 2025 carries the theme “Innovation for Transformative Change.” The Satcom Summit, themed “Space Networks for Universal Connectivity,” gathered key policymakers, including Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Minister of Communications and Development of Northeastern Region; Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Science and Technology; Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman of ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space; and Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman of IN-SPACe.
Building a Resilient, Connected India
Union Minister Scindia underscored the transformative scope of satellite communication, describing it as “a national necessity and the backbone of resilient infrastructure.” He said satcom can make telemedicine, remote education, and rural connectivity a reality, with missions like NISAR demonstrating India’s leadership in global satellite innovation.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the country’s fast-growing satcom ecosystem and the rise of public-private partnerships that are reshaping the space industry. “Satellite technology is no longer limited to scientific exploration — it is now a vital enabler for sectors such as defence, atomic energy, and agriculture,” he said.
Industry Voices Call for Policy Reforms
Experts and industry leaders at the summit called for balanced regulatory frameworks to accelerate satcom growth. Lt Gen A.K. Bhatt (Retd), Director General of the Indian Space Association (ISpA), urged reforms in spectrum allocation, noting that delays in policy decisions could slow innovation.
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Representatives from leading satellite firms, including Starlink and Viasat India, emphasized India’s unique market potential. Starlink’s Director, Parnil Urdhwareshe, praised the proactive government policies and local talent pool that position India as a key player in global satcom deployment. Meanwhile, Gaurav Sharma, Managing Director of Viasat India, discussed the benefits of multi-orbit constellations (GEO, MEO, LEO) for low-latency applications in defence, gaming, and mobility sectors.
Satcom as a Catalyst for Digital Empowerment
The summit also hosted panel discussions on non-terrestrial networks, space-based internet, and integration with 5G and 6G systems, aligning India’s goals with its broader digital empowerment agenda. The collaboration between ISRO, IN-SPACe, and private firms reflects a growing consensus that satellite networks will be essential for last-mile connectivity and industrial efficiency.
With over 1.5 lakh visitors, 400 exhibitors, and 7,000 delegates expected during IMC 2025, the event stands as Asia’s largest digital technology forum. The discussions underscored a unified national goal — to make India not just a user, but a global leader in satcom-driven digital inclusion by 2047.