Starlink is close to launching satellite internet services in India after meeting regulatory and security requirements, aiming to boost rural connectivity and rival Jio and OneWeb.
Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, Starlink, is finally set to make its official entry into the Indian market. The company is expected to receive its long-awaited Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) licence from the Indian government in the coming days. This milestone follows Starlink’s acceptance of regulatory conditions laid out by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the successful payment of statutory fees.
Security Clearances and Government Approvals
Starlink first applied for the GMPCS licence in 2022. After a detailed evaluation process, the DoT issued a Letter of Intent (LoI) to the company on May 7, paving the way for final approval. One of the most critical aspects of the clearance involved satisfying national security requirements set by the Ministry of Home Affairs. This included commitments to set up a lawful interception system and a command-and-control centre within India. Starlink has reportedly agreed to all the terms.
What Does the Licence Mean?
The GMPCS licence allows companies to provide satellite-based internet and communication services across India. So far, only two other players – Jio Satellite Communications Ltd (JSCL) and Eutelsat OneWeb – have received this licence. With Starlink entering the fray, satellite broadband in India is likely to see intensified competition and broader rural connectivity.
Final Hurdles Before Launch
The next and final step for Starlink is to receive authorisation from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), which oversees satellite operations within the country. As per reports, Starlink’s application is in its final stage and awaiting approval from an inter-ministerial panel.
