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Starlink Nears Final Approval for Satellite Internet Licence in India

With its Letter of Intent issued, Starlink is set to sign a GMPCS licence this month, pending security clearance from the Home Ministry.

Starlink and Jio logos are seen in this illustration taken, June 21, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
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Overview

  • On May 7, the Department of Telecommunications issued Starlink a Letter of Intent, clearing the way for a Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite licence.
  • Company officials are expected in New Delhi imminently to formalise GMPCS licence terms after agreeing to new security and operational conditions.
  • Starlink must establish an in-country command and control centre; comply with data localisation norms; and secure final clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • After obtaining the GMPCS licence, Starlink will submit its IN-SPACe authorisation application; regulators have proposed spectrum charges of 4% of adjusted gross revenue and an 8% licence fee.
  • The service will leverage partnerships with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel to bridge connectivity gaps in remote regions; hardware kits cost up to Rs 50,000, raising concerns over subscription affordability.