Overview
- The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a Letter of Intent to Starlink, marking a significant step toward its approval for satellite internet services in India.
- Newly mandated regulations require satellite internet providers to comply with 29 security-focused directives, including data localization, geofencing, and lawful interception capabilities.
- Operators must ensure user terminals do not function outside India’s geo-fenced coverage and block access to restricted websites as directed by the government.
- Service providers are required to indigenize 20% of their ground segment equipment and integrate India’s NaviC navigation system into terminals by 2029.
- Existing license holders, OneWeb and Jio Satellite Communications, as well as applicants like Starlink and Project Kuiper, must adhere to these rules to operate in India.