In this Jan 24 , 2019 file photo, the Indian Space Research Organisation's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle launches off onboard satellite 'Microsat R' along with "Kalamsat" at Satish Dhawan Space centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh state. (ARUN SANKAR / AFP)
MUMBAI- India has drafted a policy to enable private sector to set up new communication satellites and ground stations.
Participation by Indian private companies will help cater to the growing demand for satellite-based broadcasting, network connectivity, and global mobile personal communication, according to a draft policy
The new Spacecom Policy 2020 will govern the commercial use of orbital slots, satellites, and ground stations for communication needs.
Comments are welcomed on or before Nov 4, according a letter by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) inviting comments to the draft policy. The policy will then go to the Union Cabinet for approval.
Participation by Indian private companies will help cater to the growing demand for satellite-based broadcasting, network connectivity, and global mobile personal communication while establishing India as a significant player in the global space communication sector, according to the draft policy.
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Any Indian company sending a communication satellite in space will be liable for any damages to other objects in space and the environment. It will have to provide a financial guarantee or insurance cover at the time of seeking approval from the space regulator, according to the draft.
Since 1980, India has brought in 32 indigenous operational communication satellites, operating from multiple orbital slots providing various services in different frequency bands. Timely replacements of these satellites at the end of their mission life are essential to the continuous provisionof services.
