IPO-Bound Jio Proposes 1,600 Satellites and 23 Ground Stations Across India

Jio is planning to deploy around 1,600 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites and set up 23 ground stations across India, according to a MoneyControl news report citing people familiar with the plan.  

The network is to provide connectivity in areas where mobile towers and fibre networks are difficult to install. The proposal was displayed at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026 in New Delhi under the banner of “Sovereign Satellite Connectivity”. 

23 Ground Stations Across India 

The proposed ground stations would connect the satellite network with infrastructure on the ground. Jio also plans to link satellite services with its existing terrestrial telecom network. 

The company has stated that it wants the entire value chain to remain within India. This includes design, engineering, integration, testing, launch, deployment, and operations. The display did not provide a timeline for setting up the proposed network. 

Coverage Target of More Than 600,000 Villages 

Jio's plan sets out a target of 100% coverage across land and maritime areas, including more than 600,000 villages. Remote villages, islands and border outposts are among the locations identified for coverage. 

The company has also listed possible uses in aviation, maritime operations, enterprises, remote sites, government, defence and disaster response. Direct-to-device calling in rural areas is another application included in the proposal. 

Satellite Services to Work with Existing Network 

The proposed satellite network would operate alongside Jio's terrestrial infrastructure. Satellite links are to serve areas where conventional networks face limitations, while the ground stations would connect the space-based system to infrastructure in India. 

The announcement was made during the 10th edition of India Mobile Congress, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday. This year's event carries the theme “Scale Without Boundaries”. 

Project Remains at Proposal Stage 

The plans for 1,600 satellites and 23 ground stations remain proposals. Details on the project's implementation schedule have not been provided in the information presented at the event. 

Read More: NTPC Arm NVVN Set to Start 500 MWh BESS Operations, Plans Another 500 MWh! 

Conclusion  

The proposal outlines Jio's plans to extend telecom coverage through satellite services, with rural, remote, and maritime locations among its stated priorities. The network is intended to supplement the company's existing ground-based connectivity. 

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