Starlink was the last of the three satellite communication companies to apply for a licence and submit its security compliance documents, the Government of India stated. The clarification comes amid an ongoing dispute between Musk and the Indian government over the company’s entry into the country’s satellite internet market.
The remarks come a month after Musk accused “certain oligarchs” of blocking Starlink’s entry into India, alleging that established business groups were attempting to protect their market dominance.
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Government sources have maintained that India welcomes all players in the satellite communication sector and that consumers will ultimately decide which service provider they prefer. “Customer is the king,” an official stated, adding that customers would choose services based on pricing, value and quality.
Why Was Starlink the Last to Apply for a Satellite Communication Licence?
India has three major players in the satellite communication space: Reliance-backed Jio, Bharti Airtel-backed OneWeb and Elon Musk’s Starlink.
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All three companies have been granted satellite communication licences. Officials described India’s application process as “completely transparent”, dismissing suggestions that Starlink was being treated differently from its competitors. The companies must now demonstrate their capabilities and fulfil the government’s security requirements before moving towards commercial operations.
What Is Delaying Starlink’s Launch in India?
Although all three companies have received their licences, security clearance remains a key requirement before they can begin commercial operations at scale.
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Minister of State for Communications Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani had earlier clarified that the matter was with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and that the security clearance process was not directed at any particular company.
“The Department of Telecom has issued licences to all satcom companies as well as provisional spectrum. Now the issue is pending with MHA for security clearance. As soon as it is cleared, they will get it. It has nothing to do with one company,” Pemmasani told reporters.
Indrani Priyadarshini is a journalist and editorial professional specialising in technology, artificial intelligence, smart cities, green energy, and digital transformation. With over four years of experience in tech journalism and digital media, she is known for turning complex industry developments into clear, engaging, and insightful stories. Her expertise spans reporting, editorial strategy, digital publishing workflows, and in-depth coverage of emerging technologies shaping the future.
