NEW DELHI: The countdown to the launch of DTH services by pubcaster Prasar Bharati was upped a notch today after the pubcaster signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) for the supply of Ku-band transponders.

Isro will initially supply four leased Ku band transponders to Doordarshan on NSS-6 satellite, which will be later replaced by Isro's satellites on Insat 4A/4B when these become operational in 2005, the Press Trust of India has reported.

Prasar Bharati will pay Rs 300 million per annum towards transponder charges.