Starlink, the satellite internet venture owned by Elon Musk, is gearing up to launch its satellite communication (satcom) services in India, according to recent reports. The company already holds a Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite (GMPCS) licence, valid for 20 years, allowing it to provide satellite-based voice and data services across the country.
In July 2025, Starlink received approval from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) to operate its Gen-1 satellite constellation in India. However, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is yet to allocate the operational spectrum, a key requirement before commercial rollout.
Focus on Rural Connectivity
Speaking at the India Mobile Congress, Parnil Urdhwareshe, Starlink India’s Market Access Director, said the company’s primary focus will be rural and underserved areas.
Globally, Starlink’s largest user base comprises rural households lacking reliable broadband. In contrast, potential demand in urban centres such as Mumbai is expected to be only one-tenth of that in rural districts.
Spectrum Pricing and Regulatory Framework
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed that satcom operators pay either 4% of adjusted gross revenue (AGR) or ₹3,500 per MHz annually, whichever is higher.
Additionally, it has suggested a ₹500 annual fee per urban subscriber.
The DoT has raised questions about the feasibility of distinguishing between urban and rural users for billing purposes, while industry bodies such as the Broadband India Forum (BIF) and Indian Space Association (ISpA) have urged for lower charges to promote rural connectivity.
Scale and Service Potential
Starlink operates over 8,400 satellites globally, enabling broadband speeds of up to 200 Mbps.
In India, the company expects to reach up to 2 million users, with monthly subscription costs projected around ₹3,000.
The rollout could mark a major milestone in India’s push for universal digital access, particularly in remote and geographically challenging regions.
Summary
Elon Musk’s Starlink is preparing to launch satellite internet services in India, focusing on rural connectivity. With regulatory approvals from IN-SPACe in place and DoT spectrum allocation pending, the company plans to serve up to 2 million users at speeds of 200 Mbps, priced around ₹3,000 per month. The move could bridge India’s rural broadband gap, though spectrum pricing and licensing clarity remain key hurdles before commercial deployment.
Disclaimer:
This article is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are provided as examples and should not be considered as recommendations. Nothing contained herein constitutes personal financial advice or investment recommendations. Readers are advised to conduct their own research and consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Investments in securities markets are subject to market risks. Please read all related documents carefully before investing.