June 7, 2025 - Elon Musk’s Starlink has received a DoT (Department of Telecommunications) license to provide satellite internet services in India, making it the third company to be granted such a license. The Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite (GMPCS) licence, given by DoT, is valid for a period of 20 years.

Previously, Airtel's Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite Communications were the only two license holders. Amazon’s Project Kuiper is also in line, awaiting approval.

Within the next 15 to 20 days, Starlink is expected to receive trial spectrum, which will enable technical testing of its services. However, the company still needs final clearance from IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center), the country’s space regulator.

Before launching its services, Starlink must comply with several security regulations, including:

• Allowing legal interception of communications,
• Ensuring that user data is not transferred outside India, and
• Building at least 20% of its ground infrastructure within the country.

Basic Monthly Plan

Starlink delivers high-speed internet via satellites that orbit close to Earth, ensuring faster connectivity. According to media reports, the company may offer a basic plan in India for Rs 850 per month, though official pricing has not yet been announced.

If everything goes according to plan, Starlink could launch services in India by the end of this year. The Indian government is keen on using satellite-based internet to deliver high-speed connectivity to rural and remote areas where physical infrastructure remains weak.

Elon Musk has been pursuing a license since 2022, and it was granted after the company agreed to meet India’s security requirements.

Source: Media Reports