NewSpace India, the commercial arm of ISRO, has initiated plans to install mobile satellite service (MSS) terminals on at least 100,000 fishing boats across nine states and four union territories in India. The purpose of this initiative is to provide crucial support to fishermen by distributing emergency weather notifications and warning them about violations of international water borders. The network will utilize India’s NavIC satellite navigation system for seamless connectivity.
NewSpace India has begun the process of selecting private vendors to supply, install, and commission the MSS terminals required for establishing effective vessel communication and support systems on marine fishing vessels. The project entails the establishment of a dedicated MSS satcom network, including specialized ground stations, 9m/11m C-band ground stations, hub baseband systems, satellite bandwidth arrangements, and necessary service approvals. Satellite terminals will be built for field deployment across the coastal states and union territories involved in the project.
The implementation of this network will significantly enhance national security and provide improved protection for fishermen operating in Indian waters. The deployment of Xponders, which include ground stations and satellite terminals, will enable authorities to establish a reliable two-way communication system with fishermen. It will also facilitate periodic tracking of their locations, issuance of emergency weather alerts, warnings for international water border violations, and accurate navigation guidance.
Once the network is fully established, it will enable efficient communication and safety measures for fishermen, bolstering their overall well-being while navigating the waters


