Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet services could soon reach India, regulatory approval pending

Elon Musk's Starlink is on the verge of extending its satellite-based internet services in India, which might be a significant technical advance. According to sources quoted by The New Indian Express, Department of Telecommunication (DoT) officials are expected to meet on 20 September 2023, to discuss whether it would be feasible to issue Starlink the required license to conduct business within the nation.

Starlink presently offers satellite-powered internet connectivity in 32 nations globally. Notably, its services proved vital in Ukraine by ensuring communication continuity during a period of communication disruption amid the conflict with Russia.

Application for licenses & pre-booking channels

The report highlights that Starlink submitted an application for a Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license to the DoT last year.

In 2021, the company also initiated pre-booking channels for interested users in India. However, the government directed Starlink to cease pre-booking activities and instead pursue the proper license for operation. While Starlink's official website still indicates its readiness to commence services upon regulatory approval, the decision lies with the DoT.

What is Starlink?

Starlink is a satellite-based internet network run by Elon Musk's SpaceX, which played a role in the era of commercial spaceflight. Unlike traditional internet methods reliant on cables or copper wires, satellite internet leverages signals from orbiting satellites. This technology becomes particularly valuable in areas where conventional internet services, including fibre-optic cables, are unavailable. Furthermore, it intends to expand its services beyond 2023 to include global mobile phone coverage.

In 2019, SpaceX began deploying Starlink satellites. The Starlink constellation now consists of approximately 5,000 standardised tiny satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) that communicate with certain ground transceivers.

How to set up a satellite internet?

To utilise satellite internet, customers must install specialised equipment in their homes or in remote locations. The Starlink Kit comes with everything you need to connect to the internet. Users can simply download the Starlink App, set their smartphones for an unobstructed view of the sky, and connect.

Furthermore, users can use the Starlink App to locate the best installation location and investigate various mounting options.

Govt. regulatory approach

An official quoted in the report explained that the government's intention was to ensure that companies operate within the confines of proper licensing. Drawing a parallel with the case of Skype, the official stated that it's essential for internet-based services, including over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, to adhere to a licensing framework. This, in turn, would enable the government to issue directives if necessary without disrupting entire internet services.

Airtel & Jio are in the race too

Starlink isn't the only player eyeing the satellite internet market in India. Telecom giants Airtel and Jio are also making strides in this direction. Airtel-backed OneWeb and Jio's satellite arm, Jio Space Technology, have likewise applied for the GMPCS license. Upon receiving the license, these companies would need to secure satellite spectrum allocations from the DoT to commence operations.