India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has indicated its openness to granting a satellite broadband license to SpaceX’s Starlink, provided the company fulfills all regulatory requirements and security concerns. Speaking to the media, Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya Scindia, made it clear that Starlinks entry into Indias satellite spectrum market hinges on compliance with all necessary protocols and the resolution of any security-related issues.

“We are ready to give a licence to anyone, including Starlink,” said Scindia, underscoring the governments willingness to expand satellite broadband services in the country. However, he emphasized that the company must “check all the boxes” to meet the countrys regulatory and security standards. “You have to comply with all the rules to get the license,” Scindia noted, adding that the process is structured to ensure national security concerns are adequately addressed.

Regulatory Requirements and Security Concerns

The licensing process for satellite broadband operators in India has stirred significant debate. At present, only Bharti Group-backed OneWeb and Jio Satellite Communicationsa joint venture between Reliance Jio and SEShold operating licenses. Starlink, which has already made waves globally by offering high-speed internet in remote and underserved regions, is eager to secure a license to begin offering its services in India.

However, the regulatory body has raised several concerns that need clarification before Starlink can move forward. According to reports by The Economic Times, the Department of Telecommunications has sought detailed explanations from Starlink regarding its data storage protocols, the company’s shareholding structure, and potential links to U.S. security agencies. This request for clarification also extends to the geographical coverage the company intends to offer in India, with particular scrutiny on its planned installations near border areas, where security considerations are especially critical.

Satellite Spectrum: Auction or Administrative Allocation?

The discussion around Starlink’s license comes amid ongoing debates about satellite spectrum allocation in India. Unlike traditional telecom companies that advocate for spectrum auctions, satellite operators such as Starlink, OneWeb, and Jio Satellite Communications have expressed a preference for an administrative allocation process, citing the unique nature of satellite operations. This divergence of views has added complexity to the regulatory environment.

Starlink has been at odds with Reliance Jio, which has called for spectrum auctions instead of allocations, arguing that it gives small operators equal footing. However, Elon Musk, SpaceXs CEO, called such a decision unprecedented, highlighting the contrast between this approach and that of other nations.

Scindia further defended the governments stance, pointing out that the administrative route aligns with global norms set by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). “I cannot think of a single country that auctions spectrum for satellite,” Scindia remarked in a recent interview, reiterating the alignment of Indias policies with international practices.

The Road Ahead for Starlink

While the debate over spectrum allocation methods continues, Starlink is eager to be part of Indias growing satellite broadband market. The company, which has already launched thousands of satellites to provide internet connectivity in remote locations around the world, is positioning itself to offer similar services in India, particularly in rural and underserved regions.

Indias vast geography, combined with its diverse population, makes satellite broadband a key component in bridging the digital divide. With broadband still limited in rural areas, satellite internet services could offer a much-needed alternative to traditional wired and wireless networks. However, the governments focus on ensuring security and compliance with regulations will be a crucial factor in determining when and how Starlink can enter the Indian market.

As the Ministry of Communications waits for further clarity from Starlink, the broader issue of spectrum pricing and allocation remains unresolved. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is expected to provide its recommendations soon, which will help shape the future of satellite broadband in India.