The company, which has commenced initial broadcasting for Vijaya TV and Asianet, will add other channels progressively this month, according to an official release on Tuesday.

Commenting on the launch, Amitabh Kumar, acting chairman and managing director, VSNL, said: "VSNL would like to position Insat-2E as a `Hot Bird' in the Indian Ocean Region."

Hot Birds are those satellites which are used by a number of TV broadcasters. Availability of a number of TV channels on the same satellite encourages cable TV operators to orient their dishes to these Hot Birds. The incremental cost for a new TV channel going to a Hot Bird is lower as ground infrastructure is readily available. Other Hot Birds in the region include AsiaSat satellite on which the STAR TV channels operate.

VSNL plans to increase its operational antennasoperating Intelsats in the Indian Ocean Region from 17 to 25 by the end of the current year.

"VSNL will be effectively using the high power transponders offered on Insat as well as its zonal beams and wide beam capabilities to strongly leverage satellite broadcasting and internet operations," Kumar said.

VSNL is also offering uplinking facilities at highly competitive rates, equal to or cheaper than other international uplinking sites. The company has announced a rate of Rs 6 lakh per month from VSNL gateways. In addition, special arrangements will be made for broadcasters operating from other areas at cost-effective tariffs.