1. The fourth meeting of India-Russia Joint Task Force (JTF) in the area of economic cooperation was held in Moscow on 18 May 2010. The meeting was co-chaired by Dr. Shyam Agarwal, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce from the Indian side and Mr. G.N. Sarishvilli, Director of Department of Countries of Asia and Africa, Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation.
1. As per existing Guidelines issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, only Inmarsat Satphones, excluding BGAN system, are permitted for use / import by Foreign Nationals (Governments, Corporate Houses, Members of Mountaineering Expeditions and other such categories) with prior permission from DoT.
Satellite phones brought in baggage/hand baggage without the necessary Government of India license issued by DoT shall be detained / confiscated, as per existing procedures, till the time the holder of the satellite phone is able to provide a license issued by DoT, Government of India. In case of import of Cargo, a declaration is to be given by the person importing the goods about details of the goods. Therefore, all intending visitors are advised to make a declaration to the Indian Customs to this effect at the first port of entry. Unauthorized operation / use of any telegraphic service / device, including wireless, constitutes a violation of relevant GoI laws, rules and regulations.
2. Thuraya Satphone Service is not permitted in India. Anyone using any prohibited telegraphic device, including Satphone, violates the existing laws and is liable to be penalized under the law.
Issued by : Embassy of India, Moscow Date 7 May 2010
