India Clears Final Hurdle for Musk’s Starlink to Launch Commercial Operations

Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture under SpaceX, has finally received the green light to commence commercial operations in India, according to insider sources. The approval from India’s space regulator marks the final regulatory step after years of delays. Starlink had already secured a key license from the country’s telecom ministry last month, and this new nod signals its full entry into one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing internet markets.

Starlink had been waiting for clearance since 2022, amid growing competition and regulatory scrutiny. Its approval places it as the third satellite internet provider officially allowed to operate in India, following Eutelsat’s OneWeb and Reliance Jio. The clearance is part of India’s broader push to expand digital access to underserved and rural regions using satellite technology.

Despite this progress, Starlink must now acquire spectrum rights from the Indian government, build the necessary ground infrastructure, and pass security compliance trials. The company must demonstrate technical readiness and alignment with India’s national security protocols before it can fully roll out services.

One of the major policy debates that delayed Starlink’s entry was over how satellite spectrum should be allocated. Musk’s Starlink and Reliance’s Jio held opposing views, with Starlink favoring administrative assignment over auction. The Indian government ultimately sided with Musk, supporting assignment rather than auction—clearing the path for a smoother entry.

This regulatory approval marks a significant milestone in India’s satellite broadband sector and could accelerate competition in rural connectivity. Starlink’s arrival is expected to transform digital accessibility in remote regions, challenge existing telecom giants, and further integrate India into the global satellite internet race.

Source: Reuters