Synopsis : Starlink is on the brink of receiving final authorization from IN-SPACe to begin operations in India. While regulatory milestones have been met, security clearance and ground infrastructure remain key hurdles before commercial rollout.
In a major step forward for satellite broadband in India, Elon Musk's Starlink is set to receive its final authorization from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe). The move will officially place Starlink on equal regulatory footing with competitors OneWeb and Jio Satellite in India's growing satcom landscape.
According to sources cited by Economic Times, IN-SPACe has issued a draft agreement to Starlink, akin to a letter of intent, signaling that regulatory greenlight is imminent. Once the document is signed by both parties, Starlink will formally receive its operating license.
GMPCS Permit Secured, But Hurdles Remain
Starlink had already secured a Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license last month, allowing it to offer satellite communication services in India. However, commercial service launch hinges on the company:
Setting up earth stations/gateways
Establishing a control and monitoring centre in India
Obtaining security clearance from relevant national agencies
Despite securing their GMPCS licenses earlier (OneWeb in 2021, Jio in 2022), neither competitor has yet cleared security protocols — a process Starlink must now also undergo.
Security Sensitivities Around Starlink Terminals
Security agencies have flagged concerns over the potential misuse of Starlink terminals, particularly in sensitive border regions like the Northeast. Reports indicate that Starlink previously failed to share required data with Indian authorities, prompting the Ministry of Home Affairs to involve the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
To proceed, Starlink must demonstrate its system’s compliance via trial spectrum, which DoT is expected to allot shortly. The company will need to prove that all data traffic is routed through Indian gateways and monitored per national regulations.
Commercial Viability and Pricing Framework
Alongside security protocols, the DoT is finalizing satellite spectrum allocation rules, with pricing recommendations from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). Proposed terms include:
4% of adjusted gross revenue (AGR) as a spectrum usage fee
₹500 per urban subscriber annually, while rural users are exempt
No upfront allocation fee for spectrum
These terms are expected to offer financial flexibility for satcom firms and support broader rural digital connectivity.
Starlink–India: Collaborative Talks Underway
In a bid to advance India’s digital infrastructure, communications minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently met with SpaceX officials, including those from Starlink, to discuss collaborative opportunities leveraging satellite technologies.
With the groundwork nearly laid, Starlink’s India entry could mark a turning point for rural broadband penetration and next-gen connectivity solutions.
Disclaimer : This article is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment, legal, or technological advice. Readers are encouraged to verify developments through official channels before making business or policy decisions.
