India clears final regulatory barrier for Starlink operation
In a significant development for the satellite internet industry, SpaceX has received approval from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) to launch commercial operations of its Starlink service in India. The approval, which comes after a three-year-long process, paves the way for SpaceX to start operations in the coming months [1][2].
The initial license for Starlink's commercial operations in India has a validity period of five years, effective from the date of authorization. However, it is not yet clear what the renewal process will entail or if there are any limitations on future licenses [1].
SpaceX first applied for operations in India back in 2022, but the process was not without hurdles. The company needed to demonstrate its ability to meet Indian security rules through testing and trials, as well as set up ground infrastructure in the country [3].
The cost of the Starlink terminal kit in India is estimated to be between 30,000 to 33,000 Rupees ($478-$526 CAD), while the monthly cost of services is around 3,000 Rupees ($47 CAD) [4]. These figures were provided by Tice News, and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre confirmed the information to Reuters.
It is important to note that the latest approval does not mean that Starlink can launch immediately. SpaceX still needs to secure spectrum from the Indian government before it can begin providing services to customers [5].
India's telecom ministry has given the green light for Starlink to launch operations, joining the ranks of other satellite internet providers already operating in the country, such as Eutelsat's OneWeb and Reliance Jio [6]. As SpaceX moves forward with its plans to bring high-speed internet to India, it is expected to face stiff competition in the rapidly growing market.
Science and technology continue to play crucial roles as SpaceX, with its Starlink service, prepares to expand its commercial operations into India's market. The company's foray into India's business landscape, particularly in the realm of finance, is expected as they set up ground infrastructure and establish the cost for their services in rupees. On the other hand, the space-and-astronomy sector will be affected by the potential negotiations for additional spectrum needed for Starlink's satellite internet operations.
