Starlink set to become India’s third licensed satellite internet provider: Scindia

Gwalior, June 5: Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia announced on Thursday that Elon Musk's Starlink is set to become the third satellite internet provider to receive a license to operate in India. So far, Bharti’s OneWeb and Reliance Jio have been granted licenses by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

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“In the coming days, the third license will be provided,” Scindia told reporters, referring to Starlink. He added that once the licensing process is complete, spectrum allocation will follow, paving the way for the rapid rollout of satellite-based telecom services across the country.

“Starlink’s satellite connectivity is like a new flower in the telecom bouquet,” Scindia remarked, highlighting the evolution of India’s telecom infrastructure—from fixed-line services to mobile, broadband, and now satellite connectivity. “Satellite communication is vital, especially in remote areas where laying optical fiber or building towers is challenging,” he said.

Scindia emphasized that satellite internet will be key to improving connectivity in India’s underserved regions. To accelerate outreach, Starlink has reportedly partnered with Airtel and Jio, leveraging their extensive dealership networks to distribute and promote its services.

Starlink's anticipated entry comes at a significant geopolitical moment. Following Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency—Elon Musk is known to be a close associate of Trump—Starlink’s India plans have gained traction. In April, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met with a Starlink delegation to discuss its technology, partnerships, and potential investments in the country. Goyal later described the meeting as productive, underscoring the government’s support for Starlink’s proposed operations in India.

Satellite telecom is expected to play a transformative role in bridging India’s digital divide by bringing high-speed internet to remote and difficult-to-access areas.

(With agency inputs)