Bharti Ahead of Elon Musk's Starlink in India Satellite Approval Queue, Says Sunil Mittal
Sunil Bharti Mittal stated that Bharti is ahead of Elon Musk's Starlink in India's regulatory approval queue and ready to launch once security clearances are secured. Responding to Musk's monopoly claims, Mittal cited a five-year application wait, urged lower digital taxes, and called for urgent AI safety regulations.
Bharti Enterprises Founder and Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal stated that his group is ahead of Elon Musk’s Starlink in India’s regulatory approval queue for satellite internet services, adding that the company is fully prepared for launch once security clearances are finalised. Speaking at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum, Mittal responded to recent remarks made by SpaceX founder Elon Musk, who alleged that Starlink’s entry into the Indian market was being "blocked by certain oligarchs" intent on protecting a "monopolistic chokehold on the Indian people".
Satellite Preparedness and Regulatory Timeline
Refuting allegations of regulatory preference, Mittal noted that Bharti applied for necessary satellite clearances five years ago and has maintained operational readiness. Elon Musk Doubles Down on Attack Against Mukesh Ambani After 'Prime Minister' Jibe.
“We are all awaiting our approvals. I am significantly ahead of him in the queue. I applied five years back. I have had my ground network ready for the last three years. My satellites have been hovering over India for the last five years. We don't have the permission. So, we will be very happy to get it at least a few days before him,” Mittal said, reports The Economic Times. According to Reuters, Starlink has been seeking commercial licensing in India since 2022. In June 2025, the company received preliminary approval from India's telecom ministry, followed by a five-year commercial operations authorisation from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) in July 2025. Final commercial operations for satellite providers remain subject to pending security clearances and spectrum allocation, reports Livemint.
Infrastructure Expansion and Digital Tax Reforms
Mittal described India's preparation for satellite connectivity as being at an advanced stage, pointing out that approved satellite networks will extend coverage to remote areas unserved by conventional terrestrial infrastructure. He also highlighted Bharti’s satellite service rollouts in Africa alongside global partners. To maximise economic impact, Mittal advocated for reduced taxes on digital goods and telecom services, arguing that lower taxation is critical to enabling digital infrastructure to drive broader national growth. ‘Real Boss of India’: Elon Musk Takes ‘Prime Minister’ Jibe at Mukesh Ambani Over Starlink’s India Entry.
Urgent Call for Artificial Intelligence Governance
Addressing emerging technologies, Mittal expressed concerns over the rapid pace of artificial intelligence development, warning that AI capabilities are advancing faster than regulatory frameworks. He noted that India is currently drafting a consultation paper to establish safeguards and rules for AI deployment. Highlighting risks associated with autonomous AI agents operating beyond intended controls, Mittal emphasised that warnings from industry pioneers must be taken seriously by global policymakers.
“Every day, the news flow starts to come in from the very founders of the technology, saying, ‘We now have a fear that our agents may run rogue’. That's not something that we can take lightly, or a country can take lightly,” Mittal stated. “Are we going to wake up only when an accident happens, or do we do it before?” he questioned, calling on governments to implement proactive regulations that safeguard public interest without stifling technological innovation.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 14, 2026 02:48 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
