Starlink Cleared for Liftoff in India: Musk’s Satellite Dreams Take Orbit

Elon Musk's Starlink has received a crucial Letter of Intent (LoI) from India's Department of Telecommunications, bringing it a step closer to launching satellite internet services in the country. The pre-approval comes after Starlink made concessions on India's new security and localization regulations, including real-time terminal monitoring and local data processing. While the final license depends on full regulatory compliance and spectrum auction-Starlink's entry could dramatically reshape connectivity in rural and underpenetrated India. The service, powered by tens of thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit, promises high-speed, low-latency internet, with expected monthly fees ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 and a hardware installation fee of ₹20,000–₹35,000. Starlink's greenlight also is a strategic trade development, potentially supporting broader US-India relations. With India's massive digital divide, Starlink deployment would be a game-changer for millions looking forward to reasonable broadband connectivity.

 

Source: Financial Express, Moneycontrol, Business Today, Times of India