Startlink Receives Govt’s Approval to Offer Satcom Services in India

Elon Musk’s Starlink has received a go-ahead from the centre to roll out satellite-based internet services in India. Moneycontrol reported that the telecommunications provider received a Letter of Intent (LoI) from the Department of Telecom (DoT). However, the company is yet to receive the “final licence”, which it will be issued upon fulfilling “all licence conditions”.

“Yes, Starlink has been issued LoI by the Dot for GMPCS, VSAT and ISP licences in India,” a government official reportedly told Moneycontrol. “The final licence will be given once Starlink is able to fulfil all licence conditions," the source reportedly added.

As per reports, Indian government officials have moved swiftly to approve Starlink’s entry into India. An Indian official told The Washington Post, “It’s not likely to be an explicit element of the trade negotiations with the US, but the Indian side sees this as an important lubricant that facilitates a deal.”

Notably, securing just 1% of India's consumer broadband market could infuse about $1 billion each year to SpaceX's kitty.

Previously, Jio and Airtel announced a partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink to bring its services to users in India.