Intelsat, operator of one of the world’s largest integrated satellite and terrestrial networks, became one of the first foreign satellite operators to receive approval from the Indian government to provide extensive satellite coverage directly to India’s broadcast media companies.

The satellite company yesterday said it was a significant regulatory achievement that puts it on an accelerated path to offering new services and further India investment.

As per new space rules, foreign satellite operators will have to set up an India-based entity or have local representatives to carry out businesses within the country and obtain clearances from Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe). Many foreign service operators, including AsiaSat, over the last 12 months or so have been exploring various business models, including appointing Indian companies as their representatives.

According to a media statement issued yesterday from the US, Intelsat said it has secured authorization for four geostationary (GEO) satellites providing C-band coverage over India, which include IS-17, IS-20, IS-36 and IS-39 satellites.

The approved fleet of satellites will primarily serve India’s dynamic broadcast media industry, enabling enhanced content delivery and distribution capabilities across the subcontinent and from India to other regions of the world. This regulatory milestone underscores Intelsat’s commitment to expanding its presence in India and fostering technological advancement in the region, it said.

“This approval represents a significant step forward in Intelsat’s contribution to India’s space commerce sector, a source of great national pride,” said Gaurav Kharod, Regional Vice President for Asia Pacific at Intelsat.

“Our extensive satellite network with four satellites covering the region will provide Indian broadcasters with reliable, high-quality connectivity solutions that meet their evolving needs. This authorization enables us to better serve our customers and contribute to India’s growing media landscape,” he added.

Following the authorization from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), Intelsat won new business from three of India’s largest media companies. This new and expanded service will see Intelsat deliver a full portfolio of media content to viewers in India.

Meanwhile, Intelsat is in an advanced stage of a merger process with European satellite operator SES, which is subject to various approvals from several governments, including the European Union and the British government. SES has a joint venture in India with Reliance Jio to provide broadband-over-satellite services.