Starlink India Launch Update: Elon Musk’s Satcom Giant Set to Debut as Govt Approves TRAI Rules
India's satellite broadband sector is nearing commercial rollout as regulatory approval for spectrum allocation progresses. Starlink, Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio-SES are among the operators preparing to launch services. Under proposed rules, spectrum may be allocated for five years with a 5% AGR-based usage charge, potentially expanding internet access to remote areas.
India's commercial satellite broadband sector has moved closer to a full-scale commercial rollout as key regulatory hurdles concerning frequency allocations near finalisation. Major global and domestic satcom providers, including Elon Musk-led Starlink, Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb, and Reliance Jio-SES, are poised to introduce high-speed satellite internet services following critical administrative clearances.
As per a report by News24, an inter-ministerial panel has approved the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India guidelines on spectrum allocation, setting the stage for formal Cabinet evaluation and subsequent assignment. Starlink Gen 2 Satellite Approval: Elon Musk’s Company Reportedly Reapplies to IN-SPACe for 30,000 LOE Satellites in India.
Satellite Spectrum Allocation and Pricing Terms
Under the framework cleared by government authorities, satellite broadband spectrum will be assigned for an initial period of five years. Operators will be required to pay a spectrum usage charge set at 5% of their Adjusted Gross Revenue. Regulatory authorities are also reviewing provisions for reduced fees to encourage operators to expand connectivity into underserved rural and isolated regions.
While major players like Starlink have previously advocated for longer licensing terms, these provisional rules establish the baseline operational structure required to initiate commercial services. Companies have already secured foundational authorisations, such as Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite licenses, leaving spectrum assignment as the final prerequisite.
Starlink Competition and Infrastructure Impact
The impending market entry introduces intense competition for traditional terrestrial telecommunications providers in India. Discussions have also emerged regarding potential strategic collaborations, with reports indicating that Starlink has explored partnering with state-owned BSNL to enhance remote network backhaul and enterprise connectivity. Elon Musk Pitches Starlink for India, Says Satellite Internet Could Help ‘Least Served’ Rural Communities.
Such alliances threaten to disrupt established market shares held by domestic giants Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, both of which are developing independent satellite integration plans. As the Union Cabinet prepares to review the final framework, the commercial introduction of satcom services promises to bridge connectivity gaps across remote terrains.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 08, 2026 09:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
