NSIL, incorporated in March 2019, got mandated to undertake
operational satellite missions on a “demand-driven” model, wherein it has the
responsibility to build, launch, own and operate the satellite and provide
services to its committed customer.
As part of this initiative, NSIL, a Central Public Sector
Enterprise (CPSE), under the Department of Space (DOS), is now undertaking its
"1st demand driven communication satellite mission” named GSAT-24, a
four-tonne class Ku- band satellite. NSIL is getting this satellite built by
ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and will be launching it using
Ariane-5 launcher operated by Arianespace.
"The entire satellite capacity on-board GSAT-24 will be
leased to its committed customer M/s Tata Sky for meeting their DTH application
needs," an NSIL statement said.
NSIL said it has entered into a necessary agreement with
Tata Sky for utilising the satellite capacity on-board GSAT-24 and with
Arianespace for seeking the launch services. GSAT-24 satellite will be owned
and operated by NSIL on a commercial basis.
The GSAT-24 satellite mission will be fully funded by NSIL.
NSIL is envisaging the launch of GSAT-24 satellite during first quarter of
2022, it was stated.