Starlink, the satellite internet venture led by Elon Musk, is advancing toward entry into the Indian market, aligning with the government’s data localisation and security requirements. According to a MoneyControl report, Starlink has agreed “in principle” to these regulations in discussions with India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT). While Starlink has yet to submit a formal compliance agreement, its commitment brings it closer to securing a satellite broadband services licence, formally known as the Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) licence.
Under India’s data localisation rules, satellite communication providers must store all user data domestically and enable government intelligence agencies to intercept data when necessary. Compliance with these protocols is critical for Starlink to gain the GMPCS licence, which would grant trial spectrum access and pave the way for initial operations.
Since first applying for the GMPCS licence in October 2022, Starlink has also been coordinating with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) to secure additional regulatory approvals. Alongside Starlink, Amazon’s Project Kuiper has submitted its own GMPCS application. Both companies are currently responding to IN-SPACe’s requests for further clarification, with IN-SPACe chairman Pawan Kumar Goenka confirming the regulatory body’s ongoing review.
Starlink’s progress in India parallels reports of Elon Musk’s potential role in the future administration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, which could bolster Starlink’s influence as it expands its satellite internet services internationally. Starlink’s upcoming challenges in India include awaiting the finalisation of pricing and spectrum allocation regulations by the government for satellite broadband services, with further details expected soon.
