India's BSNL launches satellite phone priced at ₹1.34 lakh for remote communications

State‑run telecom operator BSNL announced the launch of a satellite phone (IsatPhone 2) in India, priced at Rs 1,34,166 inclusive of taxes. The handset connects directly to Inmarsat’s geostationary satellite network, enabling voice calls and SMS without reliance on mobile towers. It features SOS emergency support, long battery life, rugged construction and is aimed at users operating in network‑blind areas such as defence, maritime, disaster‑response teams, mining sites, remote industrial projects, pilgrims and adventure travellers.

Purchasers must obtain prior clearance from the Department of Telecommunications; unauthorised possession can attract legal action. BSNL offers subscription plans – government users pay Rs 3,500‑Rs 11,670 per month for 16‑60 free minutes/SMS, while commercial users pay Rs 5,835‑Rs 64,185 per month for 30‑60 free minutes/SMS, with additional usage billed at Rs 18‑Rs 25 per minute/SMS. The service, part of BSNL’s Global Satellite Phone Service (GSPS) launched in 2018, provides encrypted communications. The company noted it has deployed roughly 99,000 4G base stations nationwide as part of its broader network expansion.