Usage of Satellite Phones in India

Jul 25, 2010

As per the Indian Telegraph Act and existing guidelines, Thuraya Satellite set phone service is not permitted in India. Anyone using any telegraphic devices including Satphone unauthorisedly violates Section 4 of Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and he/she can be penalized U/S 20 & 21 of the said Act.

In view of the above, the following is highlighted for the benefit of the importers / visitors to India:

(i)    In case of import of such cargo or parts thereof, the importer should furnish the license issued by the Department of Telecommunications of the Government of India along with a detailed declaration to the customs indicating, interalia, the make/brand and serial no. / part no. where applicable.
(ii)    Satellite phones being brought in baggage / hand baggage would be detained / confiscated, as per the existing procedure till the time the holder of the satellite phone is able to produce a license issued by the Department of Telecommunications of the Government of India.

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