“Starlink Gets Licence to Compete in India’s Satellite Internet Market”

Starlink Secures Government Approval to Join India’s Satellite Internet Race

Elon Musk’s Starlink has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining a license from India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to offer satellite-based internet services. This development positions Starlink as the third company, alongside Reliance Jio and Bharti’s OneWeb, to enter India’s burgeoning satellite internet sector.

A New Era in Indian Connectivity

On June 6, 2025, Starlink received the Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license, marking its official entry into the Indian market. This approval follows a prolonged wait since 2022, during which the company navigated regulatory challenges and national security concerns. With this license, Starlink is poised to extend its global satellite internet services to one of the world’s most populous nations.

Starlink’s Global Footprint

Operated by SpaceX, Starlink has rapidly expanded its services worldwide, boasting over 5 million subscribers across more than 130 countries as of February 2025. The company’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation offers high-speed, low-latency internet, particularly benefiting remote and underserved regions.

Competitive Landscape in India

Starlink’s entry intensifies competition in India’s satellite internet arena. Reliance Jio, in partnership with Luxembourg-based SES, and Bharti-backed OneWeb have already secured licenses to provide satellite-based internet services. These companies aim to enhance connectivity in areas where traditional broadband infrastructure is lacking.

Regulatory Challenges and Spectrum Allocation

The path to licensing was not without hurdles. Starlink faced delays due to national security concerns and debates over spectrum allocation methods. A significant point of contention was whether spectrum should be auctioned or administratively allocated. The Indian government ultimately supported Starlink’s stance favoring administrative allocation, aligning with global practices for satellite services.

Affordable Internet for the Masses

Starlink plans to offer competitively priced internet services in India, with reports suggesting monthly plans starting at approximately ₹840 ($10). This pricing strategy aims to make high-speed internet accessible to a broader demographic, potentially disrupting the market dominated by traditional telecom providers.

Strategic Partnerships and Distribution

To facilitate its rollout, Starlink is expected to collaborate with established Indian telecom operators like Airtel and Jio. These partnerships will leverage existing infrastructure and distribution networks, ensuring efficient deployment and customer support across the country.

Implications for India’s Digital Future

Starlink’s entry is poised to accelerate India’s digital transformation, particularly in rural and remote areas. By providing reliable internet access, it can bridge the digital divide, support e-governance initiatives, and foster economic development. Moreover, enhanced connectivity can revolutionize sectors like education, healthcare, and agriculture by enabling access to digital tools and resources.

Conclusion

The approval of Starlink’s license marks a pivotal moment in India’s telecommunications landscape. As the country embraces satellite internet technology, the collaboration between global innovators and local partners promises to redefine connectivity standards, ensuring that even the most remote regions are not left behind in the digital age.