Jio Plans Indigenous Satellite Network to Expand India's Connectivity

Jio Platforms is preparing to enter the satellite broadband space with plans to develop an indigenous Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation aimed at connecting India's most remote regions.

Speaking at the 49th Annual General Meeting of Reliance Industries Limited, Jio Platforms Managing Director Akash Ambani announced that the company is evaluating a sovereign satellite network designed specifically for India's connectivity needs.

"Jio connected India on the ground. Now, we must connect India from the skies," Ambani said, highlighting the need to provide internet access to remote villages, island communities, and border outposts where terrestrial networks remain difficult to deploy.

To accelerate service rollout, Jio is also partnering with leading global satellite constellation providers by leasing satellite capacity while simultaneously developing its own long-term sovereign capability. The company believes this dual strategy will help meet India's growing connectivity demands while establishing a globally competitive Indian satellite broadband platform.

In addition, Jio is building dedicated ground station infrastructure across India to support both partner satellite constellations and its future indigenous satellites. The initiative aims to create a complete satellite broadband ecosystem spanning space and ground operations.

The move positions Jio to compete in a market currently dominated by international players such as Starlink and Eutelsat.
According to Ambani, the project will strengthen India's self-reliance in space technology and reinforce the country's position in the rapidly expanding global satellite broadband industry.

As Jio expands beyond terrestrial telecom services, the company is betting that satellite connectivity will play a crucial role in bridging India's digital divide and ensuring nationwide internet access.