Starlink Set for Faster Regulatory Approvals in India After Airtel, Jio Tie-Ups: Report

SpaceX and Starlink, led by Elon Musk, are expected to receive expedited approvals from India’s telecom department and IN-SPACe after partnering with Bharti Airtel and Jio Platforms Limited. This development could also facilitate regulatory clearances for Amazon’s Kuiper in India, Moneycontrol reported, citing sources. SpaceX has reportedly provided the necessary details for Starlink and agreed to most key conditions to secure a Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license and authorisation from IN-SPACe.

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Also Read: Airtel Partners with SpaceX to Bring Starlink Internet to its Customers in India

India Accelerates Starlink’s Regulatory Approvals

The report, citing sources, stated that the company has agreed to establish a ground station and a network control and monitoring center in India, as well as comply with the requirement to shift or relocate user terminals. Both the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) and the Department of Telecommunications are expected to move forward with Starlink’s applications.

“The company could soon be issued a letter of intent (LoI) after DoT and IN-SPACe are satisfied with Starlink’s applications,” the report quoted an official as saying.

Government Committees Reviewing Starlink’s Application

A separate IN-SPACe committee, comprising officials from the Home Ministry and the Department of Space, is reviewing Starlink’s application and is expected to decide on its authorisation soon. Meanwhile, Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio’s joint venture with SES have already obtained GMPCS licenses and IN-SPACe approval.

According to the report, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is expected to release recommendations on satellite spectrum pricing soon, clearing the path for commercial satellite broadband services from these providers.