Restrictions on use of satellite phones in India

Use of Thuraya/Irridium Satellite phones is banned in India.  Foreigners visiting India are advised not to carry such satellite phones to India.   

Use of any kind of satellite telephone in India is permissible only after obtaining a prior license from Department of Telecommunications (DOT-Government of India). Persons arriving in India and importing satellite telephones through baggage are required to declare these on arrival. Satellite phones declared to Indian customs will be allowed clearance only after production of a license issued by the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India. 

Unauthorized use of satellite phones in India attracts penal provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act and Indian Wireless Act. Persons found using their satellite phones without license will be prosecuted and such unauthorized satellite phones found in their possession will be seized.