DoT set to seek clarity, security clearance from NSCS on satcom
DoT) is likely to approach National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) to seek approval and clarity on satellite communications, particularly on data transfer and usage, as well as equipment and components used in satellite gateways based in India, said officials privy to the details.
The department is yet to finalise terms and conditions that would be included in awarding satellite communication with the aim of safeguarding security and integrity of the country, the officials told ET.
«The views of NSCS around security parameters are important as satellite communications can't be barred by physical borders,» said one of the persons cited above. The NSCS is the working body of the National Security Council (NSC), which is chaired by the Prime Minister.
Another person said once NSCS gives its views, the government will frame terms and conditions around security and, if required, inputs from Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) will also be sought.
The person said the government must enact robust measures to prevent misuse of satellite communications, especially by hostile actors.
To safeguard telecom networks, the government had mandated operators to procure equipment only from «trusted sources» effective June 15, 2021. Following the mandate, Chinese firms like Huawei and ZTE were not allowed to participate in rolling out networks, including 5G in the country.
Since satellite communications are set to become more prevalent in future, the security of networks must be set right, said experts.
DoT is yet
