India launches broadcast, data transmission satellite

India's space agency has launched its latest satellite, which will be used for broadcasting television shows and transmitting data, local media, quoted by an Associated Press report, said.

The nearly 2,200-kilogram (4,800-pound) satellite, named INSAT-4C, was launched aboard an Indian-made rocket, the Press Trust of India reported.

The report quoted unnamed officials at the Indian Space Research Organization as saying all preparations were complete for the launch from Sriharikota island, about 1,800 kilometers (1,200 miles) southeast of New Delhi.

The report said the satellite was designed to work for 10 years and was expected to boost broadcasting service and transmission of digital data.

India, which began its space program 43 years ago, has 12 satellites currently in orbit.