Starlink gets licence to begin India ops, way cleared for spectrum allocation

India has granted Elon Musk’s Starlink a Unified License to launch satellite-based internet services, clearing the path for spectrum allocation and operations in remote regions. Approved by the Department of Telecommunications, this move comes after a long wait since Starlink's 2021 application. It joins competitors like OneWeb and Jio-SES in using low-Earth orbit satellites. Telecom Minister Scindia highlighted India’s digital growth—970 million internet users, 944 million broadband connections, and 5G coverage in 99.6% districts. Starlink’s entry promises to bridge rural connectivity gaps, especially in remote areas, and marks a new phase in India’s digital journey on the 30th anniversary of its first mobile call.