FPJ News Service mumbai

In a bid to ensure national security, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on Monday introduced new security requirements for satellite communication service providers, stepping up its regulatory scrutiny. 

The new instructions, now incorporated into the Unified License Agreement, are aimed at reinforcing national security controls as the country prepares for a new era of satellite-driven connectivity. The guidelines significantly tighten operational and data compliance for GMPCS licensees, particularly foreign operators. Under the updated framework, companies must now secure explicit security clearances for each proposed gateway hub location within Indian territory.

The department has issued additional conditions that satellite internet operators must follow, including mandatory localisation of essential functions, such as locating the Network Control and Monitoring Centre within Indian territory, and ensuring the ability to intercept communications and monitor user activity.

Operators will be required to implement systems that can block, restrict or deny network access to specific users or groups, based on instructions from the authorities. They must prevent any unintentional coverage spillover into neighbouring countries using geo-fencing technology and be capable of blocking access to websites banned in India.