Elon Musk’s Starlink, a project by SpaceX, is on the cusp of launching its satellite-based broadband services in India, pending the award of the necessary license from the Department of Telecommunication (DoT).
Revolutionizing Internet Connectivity with Satellite Internet
Satellite internet revolutionizes traditional internet connectivity by utilizing signals beamed from orbiting satellites instead of relying on physical cables or copper wires. This technology is particularly suitable for providing high-speed internet access to remote or underserved areas where traditional internet infrastructure is not yet available.
Functioning of Satellite Internet
Satellite internet operates through dedicated terminals installed at users’ premises. In the case of Starlink, the service leverages a constellation of Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, currently numbering over 4,000, with more scheduled for deployment.
Anticipated Regulatory Decision
SpaceX, the parent company of Starlink, submitted an application for the Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license to the DoT in the previous year. A key meeting is expected to take place on September 20, during which DoT officials will deliberate on the issuance of the required license.
Starlink’s Persistent Interest in India
Starlink has been eyeing entry into the Indian market for a considerable period and even initiated pre-orders despite lacking the necessary license. This prompted a response from the DoT, which instructed Starlink to apply for the required license before proceeding with operations. As of now, Starlink’s official website still acknowledges the need for “regulatory approval.”
Government’s Stance and Licensing
A government insider commented on the situation, stating, “We didn’t want to encourage any company to provide services without proper licenses. We faced this issue with Skype; we couldn’t bring the company under a licensing regime. Now, it is beyond our jurisdiction, not adhering to regulations.”
Starlink is the third company to apply for the GMPCS license. Currently, only OneWeb, backed by Airtel, and Jio Space Technology, the satellite arm of Jio, have successfully obtained the license.
Future Steps
Should Starlink secure the license, it will require satellite spectrum allocation from DoT’s wireless planning and coordination division. The process is expected to involve spectrum auctions, with telecom companies supporting this approach while satellite companies hold opposing views.
The imminent entry of Starlink’s satellite-based broadband services into the Indian market holds the potential to bridge the digital divide and provide enhanced connectivity to areas currently underserved by traditional internet infrastructure.
