Starlink cleared by India's space agency to launch commercial operations in India -sources

Starlink cleared by India's space agency to launch commercial operations in India -sources

India's space agency, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), has granted Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk, formal approval to commence commercial operations in the country. This approval, following a key license from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) last month, paves the way for Starlink to launch its services within the next two months [2].

Starlink's entry into the Indian market is significant, as it aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet services to both urban and rural areas, including remote and underserved regions. The company has been working towards this goal for nearly three years, having initially applied for a license in 2022 [1].

The approval from IN-SPACe is a crucial step for Starlink, as it allows the company to officially roll out its services. Starlink's launch strategy includes a free one-month trial with every device purchase, giving users the opportunity to experience the service before committing to monthly subscriptions [1]. The service is expected to deliver internet speeds ranging from 50 Mbps up to 250 Mbps, with a total bandwidth capacity of approximately 600 to 700 Gbps [1].

The cost of the Starlink Standard Kit is anticipated to be around Rs 33,000 (approximately $395), which covers the dish antenna, mounting stand, Wi-Fi router, necessary cables, and power adapter. Monthly subscription fees are expected to range between Rs 3,000 and Rs 4,200 (about $36 to $50) [1].

Starlink's launch in India comes as the country's space industry is poised for substantial growth. According to a report by FICCI-EY, the Indian space industry is expected to grow from $8.4 billion in 2022 to $44 billion by 2033 [3]. This growth presents a significant opportunity for space-focussed startups, as seen with the recent launch of the AWS Space Accelerator program, which aims to support 40 space-focused startups in the early and growth stages across India, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan [3].

The approval of Starlink's services in India also coincides with the expansion of satellite connectivity services by Viasat, another US-based satellite communications firm. Viasat is partnering with state-run BSNL to deliver satellite connectivity services, targeting aviation, maritime, defense, and enterprise sectors. This partnership aims to offer direct-to-device satellite services, starting with two-way messaging [4].

As Starlink and Viasat continue to expand their satellite services in India, the country's telecommunications landscape is set to undergo significant changes. These developments are likely to enhance connectivity, particularly in rural and remote areas, and support the growth of the Indian space industry.

References:
[1] https://www.financialexpress.com/life/technology-elon-musks-starlink-to-launch-internet-services-in-india-within-two-months-know-price-plans-speed-and-more-3900062/
[2] https://news.abplive.com/business/elon-musk-starlink-india-sri-lanka-final-clearance-satellite-internet-1784719
[3] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/technology/aws-backs-spacetech-opportunity-in-india-expands-accelerator-programme/articleshow/122321927.cms
[4] https://m.economictimes.com/industry/telecom/telecom-news/as-starlink-prepares-for-india-entry-us-based-viasat-expands-satellite-services-with-bsnl-report/articleshow/122228867.cms