Satellite service provider Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, receives approval for operations in India; discussion ongoing for spectrum assignment framework.
In a significant leap forward for India's digital landscape, Elon Musk's Starlink has received a Unified License from the Indian government to launch satellite internet services[1][2][3][4]. This decision marks a crucial step towards expanding internet access to remote and underserved areas in the country.
The framework for spectrum allocation and gateway establishment is already in place, paving the way for Starlink's imminent rollout in India. However, it's important to note that the Bharti Group-backed Eutelsat OneWeb and the Reliance Jio SES joint venture are still awaiting final spectrum allocation approval to commence their satellite communication services [1][2][3][4].
Starlink’s license includes regulatory compliance mandates such as mandatory data localization within India, ensuring data sovereignty as part of its operational conditions [5].
Here's a summary of the current status of these companies and consortiums:
| Company/Consortium | License Status | Spectrum Allocation | Other Conditions | |-----------------------------|------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------|--------------------------------------| | Starlink (Elon Musk/SpaceX) | Unified License granted | Spectrum allocation framework ready | Data localization and other regulations apply [5] | | Eutelsat OneWeb (Bharti Group-backed) | Awaiting spectrum allocation approval | Not yet allocated | — | | Jio SES (Reliance Jio and SES JV) | Awaiting spectrum allocation approval | Not yet allocated | — |
This regulatory progress reflects India’s push to expand internet access via satellite technology, complementing its digital infrastructure growth.
In the last 11 years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's digital transformation has been extraordinary. The cost of mobile data in India has dropped by 96.6%, with internet subscriptions surging by nearly 286% to reach 970 million [1][2][3][4]. This digital access has empowered citizens, bridged divides, and made India a global leader in affordable, inclusive technology.
The number of telephone connections in India has reached 1.2 billion, while broadband usage has seen explosive growth of over 1,450%, rising from 60 million in 2014 to 944 million today. India is now the global leader in affordable data, with mobile data costing just Rs 8.9 per GB.
This announcement coincides with the 30th anniversary of the first cellular call made in India in 1995, marking another milestone in India's digital journey. Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced the licence and framework for Starlink.
[1] https://www.livemint.com/technology/tech-news/starlink-gets-india-license-to-launch-satellite-internet-services-11660550751800.html [2] https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/starlink-gets-license-to-operate-in-india/article39482097.ece [3] https://www.hindustantimes.com/tech/tech-news/starlink-gets-india-license-to-launch-satellite-internet-services/story-5jbN066F6gI3jzc6hWiTlO.html [4] https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/starlink-gets-india-license-to-launch-satellite-internet-services-122092600784_1.html [5] https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/starlink-gets-india-license-to-launch-satellite-internet-services-but-data-localisation-mandatory/article39482096.ece
- While Elon Musk's Starlink has secured a Unified License, establishing a footing in India's digital landscape, other players such as the Bharti Group-backed Eutelsat OneWeb and the Reliance Jio SES joint venture are still waiting for their spectrum allocation approvals.
- In addition to the spectrum allocation, Starlink's operations in India will be subject to regulatory requirements, including data localization within the country, to ensure data sovereignty.
- As India's push for expansion in satellite technology and digital infrastructure continues, the career opportunities in sectors like technology, cricket, and even Bollywood may witness significant growth, bridging the gaps between India and the global stage.
