Starlink Secures License for Satellite Internet in India, Prepares for Launch

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In a significant development for India’s digital landscape, Elon Musk’s Starlink has been granted a Unified License to provide satellite internet services across the country. The announcement, made by Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, paves the way for the company to enter the Indian market, bringing with it the promise of high-speed broadband to remote and underserved areas. This move, which follows years of regulatory hurdles, is part of a broader government effort to expand digital connectivity and bridge the nation’s digital divide.

The new license, granted by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), allows Starlink to operate its satellite-based communication network. The government has also finalized the necessary frameworks for spectrum allocation and gateway establishment, ensuring a smooth rollout. This marks a pivotal moment for India, which now has another major player in the satellite internet sector alongside Bharti Group-backed Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio SES, both of which are also awaiting final spectrum allocation. The entry of Starlink is expected to intensify competition and accelerate the deployment of advanced connectivity solutions, particularly in regions where traditional fiber and mobile networks are not economically viable.

The services are expected to be priced at a monthly subscription of around Rs 3,000, according to reports. This pricing strategy, while higher than conventional broadband plans in urban centers, positions Starlink as a premium option for those in remote areas with limited alternatives. The initial rollout will be capped at 2 million users, with the goal of providing internet speeds of up to 200 Mbps. The required hardware kit, which includes a satellite dish and router, is anticipated to cost approximately Rs 33,000. These costs, while substantial, are in line with Starlink’s pricing in other countries.

Starlink’s entry into the Indian market is a direct response to the nation’s growing demand for reliable internet access and aligns with the government’s digital inclusion goals. The company’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation promises to deliver low-latency, high-speed internet that could transform connectivity for millions. As the company navigates the final stages of regulatory clearance, its strategic partnerships with local telecom giants like Airtel and Jio are expected to facilitate a faster and more efficient deployment of services nationwide. This collaboration will be crucial for the company to effectively distribute its hardware and extend its reach into India’s vast and diverse market.