BSNL recently introduced its Direct-to-Device satellite communication service effectively making it the first Indian company to engage in Satellite-to-Device service, the ministry of telecommunications (DoT) stated.
BSNL Satellite Communication – Direct to Devices
The newly unveiled satellite-based service, with seamless connectivity across multiple platforms, allows BSNL customers to make emergency telephone calls, send SOS messages, and make UPI payments without cellular networks or Wi-Fi. This is quite useful in the case of users in most remote areas such as trekkers in Spiti valley or for villagers in remote areas.
The Engineering Core of BSNL’s Satellite Services
BSNL, with the aid of Viasat, developed this service, which also played a key role in supporting two-way communications over Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) connectivity. One notable feature is its ability to enable seamless communication in remote areas. demonstrations during IMC 2024 was able to successfully establish communication with geostationary L-band satellites, demonstrating the scope of satellite for average users.
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The Impact of Satellite Connectivity on India
In India, satellite communication is primarily restricted to emergency response, military, or government use. This is about to change with BSNL’s new service, which makes satellite connectivity accessible to the masses. It will enable people living in isolated areas or those in crisis situations to stay connected.
Service Aspects and Its Plus Points
Users can now maintain contact in such regions without cell coverage, enabling not just emergency calls but also basic services like UPI transactions. At the moment, however, whether the service is available for non-emergency calls or for sending SMS remains particularly vague.
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Concerns Around Accessibility and Cost
There are many unanswered issues concerning pricing and plan details that are still terrific concerns for users who are still in suspense. BSNL has highlighted the technology and features, but it has not clarified whether it will bundle the satellite connectivity with current plans or offer it at an additional cost.
This is a commendable achievement for both BSNL and India as a whole as it aims to expand its telecommunication services in all remote areas of the nation.
