Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite-based broadband service, has been granted the expected state approval to operate in India. This important step clears the way for Starlink to provide service in the world’s second largest internet market, after China. The Indian government’s new announcement removes the last obstacles for Musk to expand his Indian user base. India is home to more than 1.4 billion people and nearly 950 million internet subscribers, making it a huge opportunity for growth.
Starlink has already been granted permission to roll out its services in India. This decision reverses course from their last ditch effort to continue operating without legally required licenses, leading to public denunciations from Indian authorities in 2022. Since then, satellite internet providers have completely changed their competitive environments. This evolution culminated recently with the adoption of new rules for Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) operators. These regulations are a step toward laying down solid security guardrails that companies such as Starlink can’t duck under, making them more accountable and safeguarding consumer interests.
Starlink has partnered with the two largest Indian telecommunications companies Airtel and Reliance Jio. Together, they’re poised to deliver a first-class high-speed internet service. These partnerships would allow Starlink to increase coverage and operational efficiencies across the broad Indian sub-continent.
Elon Musk is chomping at the bit to bring Starlink to India. He has followed up with plans to visit the country this year. His recent meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the United States is a clear indication of how critical their partnership is. Both leaders are interested in moving forward on innovation, particularly in the technology space.
In late 2023, the Indian government released a new proposed telecom bill. This bill cleared the way for new spectrum to be allocated for satellite services and created a uniform fee structure. This fleet shift is particularly important for Starlink given the constellation’s ongoing issues. Three years later, the government has yet to announce what specific spectrum it intends to award satellite internet companies.
Starlink has set a target to have 200,000 active terminals in India though the company had set that target for 2022. The vision and future success of this plan depends on timely allocated spectrum. It additionally entails a strong commitment to staying in lockstep with those new rules.
“booking/rendering the satellite internet service” – Indian government source
The approval represents an important step toward expanding internet access across India, including in some of the country’s most rural and underserved communities. With its advanced technology and satellite capabilities, Starlink holds the potential to bridge the digital divide and provide reliable connectivity to millions of users.
Starlink continues to prepare for its own launch. Industry insiders are intently observing how it will address regulatory hurdles and the changing market landscape in India. The country is going through an impressive boom in consumption of internet connectivity. This trend has produced a lucrative market for Starlink, who is more than happy to capitalize on any opportunity presented.
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