Elon Musk's Starlink could receive approval from Indian government soon
Elon Musk's satellite communications company, Starlink, is nearing approval from the Indian government for its license application. This development comes amid ongoing concerns about the company's connections with US security agencies. As per The Economic Times, the government is expediting Starlink's application and may grant "conditional approval" based on the firm's commitments. This development coincides with Musk's impending visit to India, where he is expected to discuss plans for a Tesla factory with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Application under examination by Indian authorities
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is currently examining Starlink's application through an internal committee. Unresolved issues, such as the company's ties with American intelligence agencies, may result in only conditional approval. The Digital Communication Commission (DCC), the highest decision-making body of the DoT, is expected to handle the Starlink case. The company is required to clarify its ownership structure, including any investments or contracts from US security agencies.
Starlink applied for the license in 2022
Starlink applied for global mobile personal communication by satellite services (GMPCS) license in October 2022. Rivals like Eutelsat OneWeb, supported by Bharti Enterprises, and Reliance Jio's satellite communications venture, already possess GMPCS permits. Amazon has also submitted an application for a license for its Project Kuiper satellite broadband project. In response to queries about investments from neighboring countries like China and Pakistan, Starlink confirmed that none of its investors are from nations sharing a land border with India.
Second attempt to enter Indian satcom market
This is Starlink's second attempt to penetrate the Indian satellite communications market. In 2022, the company had to refund pre-booking fees to applicants in India after being instructed by the DoT to first secure regulatory approvals. Currently, Starlink operates 5,600 active satellites and plans to launch tens of thousands more to enhance global internet capabilities. Once fully operational, the network intends to rival telecom providers that use larger and higher-altitude satellites positioned in specific locations.
