Starlink Needs To Get Couple More Approvals: 3 Key Steps to Launch in India

Starlink Needs To Get Couple More Approvals from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to bring its revolutionary satellite internet to India, as confirmed by Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal. This article dives into the latest updates on Starlink’s journey to enter India’s telecom market, exploring the critical approvals still needed, the steps Starlink must take, and the potential impact of its services on India’s connectivity landscape. With a focus on bridging the digital divide, Starlink’s entry could transform internet access in rural and remote areas, but regulatory hurdles remain. We’ll break down the process, challenges, and opportunities, drawing insights from trusted sources like Startup INIDAX and industry reports.

What’s Holding Starlink Back? The Need for More Approvals From DoT

The Role of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT)

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is the gatekeeper for telecom services in India, ensuring that companies like Starlink meet stringent regulatory and security standards before operating. Starlink, a satellite internet service by SpaceX, received a Letter of Intent (LoI) from the DoT on May 7, 2025, for its Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license, a major milestone. However, as Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal recently stated, Starlink Needs To Get Couple More Approvals from the DoT to commence commercial operations. These approvals are critical to ensure compliance with India’s telecom policies and national security requirements.

Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal’s Statement

Speaking at the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) Symposium 2025 in Chennai, Neeraj Mittal emphasized that Starlink has secured approval for commercial operations but still requires “another couple of approvals” from the DoT. “Once they apply for spectrum, they need to do the testing and then show compliance to the security conditions,” Mittal said, adding that the timeline depends on Starlink’s ability to meet these conditions. This statement highlights the government’s cautious approach to satellite internet services, balancing innovation with security.

The 3 Key Steps Starlink Must Take to Launch in India

To bring its high-speed satellite internet to Indian users, Starlink must navigate three critical steps to secure the remaining approvals from the DoT and other regulatory bodies. Here’s what they need to do:

Securing Spectrum Allocation

One of the biggest hurdles for Starlink is obtaining spectrum allocation from the Indian government. Spectrum is the lifeblood of satellite communication, enabling Starlink’s constellation of over 7,000 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to deliver broadband internet. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is currently finalizing recommendations for spectrum pricing and allocation, which will determine how Starlink and competitors like Jio and OneWeb operate. Without allocated spectrum, Starlink cannot begin services, making this a pivotal step.

Demonstrating Compliance with Security Protocols

India’s stringent security requirements are non-negotiable, especially given past concerns about Starlink devices being used illegally in regions like Manipur and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The DoT mandates that Starlink demonstrate its ability to comply with security protocols, including lawful interception systems and data localization. This involves setting up a command-and-control center within India and ensuring that user data remains within the country’s borders. Starlink’s recent agreement to these terms has paved the way for its LoI, but rigorous testing is still required.

Gaining IN-SPACe Approval

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is another key player in Starlink’s approval process. As India’s space regulator, IN-SPACe must grant landing rights and authorize Starlink’s satellite constellation to operate in Indian airspace. Sources indicate that IN-SPACe’s inter-ministerial committee, which includes members from the Ministries of Home Affairs, External Affairs, and Commerce, is close to approving Starlink’s application. This approval is expected soon, but it remains a critical step before commercial rollout.

Why Starlink’s Entry Matters for India’s Connectivity

Bridging the Digital Divide in Rural India

India’s telecom market is one of the largest in the world, with over 950 million internet subscribers. Yet, nearly 75% of rural India lacks fast broadband, and many areas have no cellular or fiber connectivity. Starlink’s satellite internet, with download speeds of 25–220 Mbps and low latency of 20–60 milliseconds, could be a game-changer for these underserved regions. By providing high-speed internet to schools, healthcare facilities, and communities in remote areas, Starlink aligns with India’s goal of digital inclusion. Startup INIDAX has been closely tracking this development, noting its potential to transform rural connectivity.

Competition with Jio, Airtel, and OneWeb

Starlink’s entry will intensify competition in India’s satellite internet market. Bharti Airtel-backed Eutelsat OneWeb and Reliance Jio’s satellite arm have already secured GMPCS licenses and IN-SPACe approvals, giving them a head start. However, Starlink’s partnerships with Airtel and Jio, announced in March 2025, could level the playing field. These telecom giants will distribute Starlink equipment through their retail networks, expanding its reach. This competitive landscape could drive innovation and lower costs for consumers, but it also raises questions about spectrum pricing fairness, as domestic operators have voiced concerns.

Challenges and Opportunities for Starlink in India

Security Concerns and Regulatory Hurdles

Starlink’s journey in India hasn’t been smooth. In 2021, the company faced backlash for accepting pre-orders without approvals, leading to refunds for 5,000 customers. More recently, security concerns arose when Starlink devices were found with insurgents in Manipur and smugglers in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. These incidents prompted scrutiny from the Ministry of Home Affairs, with Starlink initially reluctant to share user data. The company’s agreement to comply with India’s security norms has eased tensions, but ongoing vigilance is required to maintain trust.

Partnerships with Airtel and Jio

Starlink’s strategic partnerships with Airtel and Jio are a major opportunity. These telecom giants control over 70% of India’s telecom market, offering Starlink a robust distribution network. Airtel plans to integrate Starlink into its existing infrastructure, while Jio will sell Starlink equipment through its stores and online platforms. These collaborations could accelerate Starlink’s rollout and make its services more accessible, especially in urban and semi-urban areas. Startup INIDAX reports that these partnerships signal a new era of satellite internet in India.

What’s Next for Starlink in India?

Timeline for Approvals and Launch

Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal has made it clear that Starlink Needs To Get Couple More Approvals, but the timeline depends on the company’s actions. Once Starlink applies for spectrum and completes security testing, the DoT is ready to issue the final license. IN-SPACe approval is also expected soon, with sources suggesting a decision by August 2025. If all goes well, Starlink could launch commercial services within two months, potentially offering a one-month free trial and pricing at ₹3,000 per month for unlimited data, with a ₹33,000 hardware kit.

Potential Impact on India’s Telecom Landscape

Starlink’s entry could redefine India’s telecom landscape, particularly in rural and remote areas. With a projected market value of $1.9 billion by 2030, satellite broadband is a lucrative opportunity. Starlink’s ability to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet could complement existing 4G networks and pave the way for innovative applications like remote education and telemedicine. However, its premium pricing may limit its reach to affluent users unless costs are optimized through local manufacturing and partnerships.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Awaits Starlink in India

Starlink’s journey to launch in India is nearing its final stages, but Starlink Needs To Get Couple More Approvals from the DoT to make it happen. With spectrum allocation, security compliance, and IN-SPACe approval still pending, the company is on the cusp of transforming India’s connectivity landscape. By bridging the digital divide and competing with established players like Jio and Airtel, Starlink could usher in a new era of satellite internet. As Startup INIDAX continues to track this story, one thing is clear: Starlink’s entry is not a matter of if, but when. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development!