Tata Play, a direct-to-home (DTH) service provider, has announced that it has started broadcasting television channels using its dedicated GSAT-24 Satellite, which was leased from the Indian space agency ISRO. The GSAT-24 satellite was launched in June of the previous year specifically for Tata Play, with the aim of increasing its channel capacity to 900 channels and ensuring coverage across India, including remote areas like the Andaman Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands.

Following the launch, ISRO took the necessary time to position the satellite in the desired geosynchronous orbit. The satellite underwent testing by ISRO before being handed over to Tata Play for their own tests.

Tata Play’s MD & CEO, Harit Nagpal, expressed excitement about this development, as it will allow the company to carry 900 channels, including regional and Gyanwani channels launched by the government. This expansion not only improves signal reception but also enhances channel capacity, making Tata Play the largest satellite bandwidth provider among all DTH platforms.

Tata Play has now added its third domestically developed satellite to its DTH service, serving all recent customers through this new satellite. This achievement was made possible through the collaboration between Tata Play, a joint venture involving the Tata Group and 21st Century Fox, and ISRO’s commercial subsidiary NSIL (New Space India Ltd).

The GSAT-24 satellite is a game-changer in India’s telecommunications landscape. It is the first demand-driven communication satellite mission undertaken by NSIL following space sector reforms. This satellite is expected to advance domestic broadcasting services with advanced digital TV transmission capabilities, reflecting the success of the “Make In India” initiative.

ISRO Chairman S Somanath has described this as a significant achievement that showcases India’s aerospace capabilities and marks a successful entry into the demand-driven mission segment. The GSAT-24 satellite, weighing 4 tonnes and operating on the 24-Ku band, was specifically designed by ISRO to fulfill Tata Play’s DTH application needs.

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