The Indian government has granted conditional approval for Elon Musk’s Starlink to commence satellite-based internet services in the country, marking a significant advancement in India’s telecommunications sector. This decision follows Starlink’s prolonged wait for licenses since 2022, amid national security concerns and regulatory delays.
In March 2025, Starlink entered into agreements with major Indian telecom operators—Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Reliance Jio—to enhance its presence in the world’s most populous nation. The recent approval comes after a contentious debate over spectrum allocation methods for satellite internet services, with Indian authorities ultimately supporting Musk’s advocated approach.
The approval is accompanied by stringent conditions concerning national security, border regulations, and ownership structures. Starlink aims to provide satellite-based internet services with a focus on mobility and extensive coverage, particularly in remote and underserved regions. This development reflects growing interest from global satellite communication players in the Indian market, positioning the country as a potential hub for advanced satcom technologies.
