Maharashtra explores satellite phone connectivity for deep-sea fishermen
Maharashtra is considering satellite phone connectivity for deep-sea fishermen and is in talks with BSNL. The move is aimed at improving emergency communication, rescue response and maritime safety offshore.
The Maharashtra government is considering providing satellite phone connectivity to deep-sea fishermen to ensure uninterrupted communication with the shore, particularly during emergencies in remote offshore waters.
The Fisheries Department is currently holding discussions with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) on the proposed facility, Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane said on Tuesday.
According to a statement issued by the minister’s office, the department reviewed BSNL’s Global Satellite Phone Service (GSPS), including its coverage, technical capabilities and suitability for maintaining communication in areas beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks.
Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Rane said the safety and livelihood of fishermen remain a top priority for the state government. He noted that the absence of mobile network coverage in deep-sea areas often creates difficulties during emergencies.
"Satellite phones can serve as a lifeline for fishermen by enabling uninterrupted communication with the shore. The government is positive about introducing this facility in coordination with BSNL, which will strengthen maritime safety, rescue operations and communication," he said.
The minister said the proposed service would allow fishermen to remain connected even in remote offshore regions where conventional mobile networks are unavailable. This would help them seek immediate assistance during adverse weather conditions, mechanical breakdowns, medical emergencies and other crises.
Officials said the facility is also expected to improve the effectiveness of rescue operations by ensuring continuous communication between fishing vessels and authorities on shore, enabling faster emergency response.
The move is part of the Maharashtra government’s broader efforts to enhance safety measures for fishermen through the adoption of modern technology. Under its "Fishermen Safety First" policy, the state is focusing on initiatives aimed at improving maritime safety and modernising the fisheries sector.
If implemented, the satellite phone service could significantly enhance communication capabilities for deep-sea fishermen, reducing risks at sea and strengthening emergency preparedness along Maharashtra’s coastline.
The Maharashtra government is considering providing satellite phone connectivity to deep-sea fishermen to ensure uninterrupted communication with the shore, particularly during emergencies in remote offshore waters.
The Fisheries Department is currently holding discussions with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) on the proposed facility, Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane said on Tuesday.
According to a statement issued by the minister’s office, the department reviewed BSNL’s Global Satellite Phone Service (GSPS), including its coverage, technical capabilities and suitability for maintaining communication in areas beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks.
Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Rane said the safety and livelihood of fishermen remain a top priority for the state government. He noted that the absence of mobile network coverage in deep-sea areas often creates difficulties during emergencies.
"Satellite phones can serve as a lifeline for fishermen by enabling uninterrupted communication with the shore. The government is positive about introducing this facility in coordination with BSNL, which will strengthen maritime safety, rescue operations and communication," he said.
The minister said the proposed service would allow fishermen to remain connected even in remote offshore regions where conventional mobile networks are unavailable. This would help them seek immediate assistance during adverse weather conditions, mechanical breakdowns, medical emergencies and other crises.
Officials said the facility is also expected to improve the effectiveness of rescue operations by ensuring continuous communication between fishing vessels and authorities on shore, enabling faster emergency response.
The move is part of the Maharashtra government’s broader efforts to enhance safety measures for fishermen through the adoption of modern technology. Under its "Fishermen Safety First" policy, the state is focusing on initiatives aimed at improving maritime safety and modernising the fisheries sector.
If implemented, the satellite phone service could significantly enhance communication capabilities for deep-sea fishermen, reducing risks at sea and strengthening emergency preparedness along Maharashtra’s coastline.
