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Elon Musk’s Starlink Gets Government Nod to Launch Satellite Internet Services in India.

Science and Technology | Dated: 14 May 2025

In May 2025, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, issued a Letter of Intent (LoI) to Starlink, the satellite internet service provider owned by Elon Musk, marking a pivotal milestone towards its commercial launch in India. This approval follows nearly three years after Starlink first submitted its application for an operator licence.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - Starlink currently operates a constellation of over 7,000 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, delivering high-speed satellite communication services across more than 100 countries. Its entry into the Indian market is expected to significantly improve internet access in remote and underserved areas, contributing to the government's mission of digital inclusion.
  • - As part of its regulatory progress, the LoI enables Starlink to move toward securing a Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) licence, a critical requirement for offering satellite-based internet services in India.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) To comply with national security norms, Starlink has agreed to adhere to 29 security conditions laid out by the DoT. These include real-time tracking of terminals, local data processing, mandatory legal interception systems, and the localisation of at least 20% of its ground infrastructure during the early operational phase.
  • (ii) Despite this progress, Starlink must still obtain additional clearances. It requires approval from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) and needs spectrum allocation from the Indian government. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is presently working on pricing recommendations for the administrative allocation of satellite spectrum.
  • (iii) To bolster its reach and service offerings, Starlink has formed strategic partnerships with major Indian telecom operators, including Reliance Jio (Mumbai) and Bharti Airtel (New Delhi). These partnerships are expected to enhance Starlink's ability to offer bundled service solutions in the Indian market.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which satellite internet provider owned by Elon Musk recently received a Letter of Intent (LoI) from the Indian government to begin operations in India?

Correct Answer: Starlink

🚀 Quick Recap: