Elon Musk’s Starlink has received final regulatory clearance from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), paving the way for satellite-based internet services across India. The approval allows Starlink to deploy its Gen1 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, comprising 4,408 satellites operating at altitudes of 540–570 km.
🚀 Key Highlights:
- Five-Year Authorization: Valid until July 2030 or the end of Gen1’s operational life.
- 600 Gbps Capacity: Starlink’s network promises high-speed internet, especially in underserved and rural regions.
- Minimal Infrastructure: Satellite internet reduces dependency on ground-based networks like fiber or cable.
📡 Regulatory Milestones:
- Starlink secured its operator licence from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in May 2025.
- The government opted for administrative spectrum allocation, avoiding auctions .
- Starlink still has to obtain additional clearances and comply with security and data localization norms.
🤝 Market Impact:
- Competing with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, Starlink has partnered with both for retail distribution.
- Targeting urban and remote users, the service is expected to reshape India’s digital landscape.
🛡️ Compliance & Security:
- Operators must indigenize 20% of ground equipment within five years.
- Integration with India’s NavIC navigation system is mandatory by 2029.
- Real-time monitoring and domestic data routing are required to ensure national security.