Starlink Poised for Approval to Offer Satellite Internet Services in India

Starlink Poised for Approval to Offer Satellite Internet Services in India

VoM News Desk | November 12, 2023 | 07:53 AM IST | Technology | Follow on Google News

Starlink Poised for Approval to Offer Satellite Internet Services in India

Government Approval for Starlink’s Operations in India

Starlink, SpaceX’s global satellite Internet communication service, is reportedly on the verge of receiving approval from the Indian government to offer its services in the country. As per an ET Satcom report, Starlink is expected to be eligible to provide Internet access to both individual customers and organizations in India, following a security check.

Compliance with Data Storage Rules

Granting of GMPCS License

The company is set to be granted a global mobile personal communication by satellite services (GMPCS) license after the completion of a security vetting process. The government’s decision comes after Starlink satisfactorily responded to queries about its data storage plans in India, aligning with existing norms.

Entry into India’s Satcom Market

Once awarded the GMPCS license, Starlink will join Jio’s JioSpaceFiber and Bharti-backed OneWeb as the third company eligible to launch satellite communication services in India. However, to commence operations, these companies must also secure approval from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) and receive spectrum allocation from the government.

Amazon’s Entry into Satellite Internet Services

Amazon is also making strides in the satellite Internet sector in India, having sought regulatory approval from IN-SPACe for its Project Kuiper network. This initiative aims to provide Internet access in regions underserved by traditional service providers.

Pricing and Spectrum Allocation Uncertainties

The cost of accessing satellite Internet networks from Starlink, Amazon, JioSpaceFiber, and OneWeb remains undisclosed in India. The final pricing is expected to be influenced by the spectrum allocation process, a mandatory step before these operators can begin offering their services.

The anticipated approval for Starlink to operate in India marks a significant development in the country’s satellite Internet landscape, with major players like Amazon and Jio also gearing up to enter the market. The entry of these services is poised to transform Internet accessibility, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.