India’s satellite communication sector is awaiting final security clearances and decisions on spectrum allocation and pricing before commercial services can be rolled out. Government sources have clarified that all three licensed providers — Reliance-backed Jio, Bharti Airtel-backed OneWeb and Elon Musk’s Starlink — are yet to complete the remaining requirements.
The clarification came on November 6, following Musk’s allegations that certain business groups were obstructing Starlink’s entry into India. Government sources said the licensing process had been transparent and that all three companies were being treated under the same regulatory framework.
Starlink Was Last to Apply
According to government sources, Starlink was the last among the three companies to apply for a satellite communication licence and receive approval. It was also the last to submit its security compliance documents.
Airtel-backed OneWeb submitted its compliance documents first, followed by Reliance-backed Jio. Starlink submitted its documents after the two companies.
All three providers have received satellite communication licences. However, they must demonstrate their capabilities and fulfil the prescribed security requirements before proceeding with commercial operations.
Spectrum Allocation and Pricing Still Pending
Two major steps remain before satellite internet services can be rolled out at scale: completion of security assessments for all three providers and a government decision on spectrum allocation and pricing.
The Department of Telecommunications has issued licences and provisional spectrum to the companies, but the security assessment is pending with the Ministry of Home Affairs. The government has maintained that the requirements apply equally to every licensee.
Once the security conditions are met and spectrum-related decisions are finalised, the companies can move towards launching their services in India.
Government Responds to Musk’s Allegations
In October, Musk alleged on social media that certain business groups were attempting to block Starlink’s entry into India to protect their market positions. The Ministry of Communications rejected the allegation, stating that India follows a fair and non-discriminatory authorisation framework for satellite communication services.
Government sources have reiterated that customers will ultimately decide which provider they prefer based on pricing, value and service quality.
The three-way competition is expected to shape India’s satellite broadband market, particularly in remote and underserved areas where conventional mobile networks have limited reach.
