Starlink to Transform Indian Internet Landscape Soon: News from Reader Wall

Elon Musk’s Starlink expected to Operate in India

According to recent news from source of Reader Wall, Starlink, Elon Musk’s ambitious satellite internet company, is set to receive clearance for its operation in India. Leaping regulatory hurdles and tests, Starlink’s impending entry into the Indian market promises to enhance and facilitate broad connectivity, particularly in rural and remote regions.

Clearance Path

Pending its definitive shareholding pattern disclosure to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Starlink should soon obtain its operational certificate from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Following this, a letter of intent from the DoT would then be forwarded to Telecom secretary Neeraj Mittal and Minister of Communications Ashwini Vaishnaw for approval. Once approved, the Satellite Communications Wing will then grant Starlink its long-awaited approval.

License and Services

In 2022, Starlink had already sought its global mobile personal communication by satellite services (GMPCS) license. Upon receipt, Starlink would be the third Indian company to earn this license, trailing OneWeb and Reliance Jio. With its global usage statistics demonstrating impressive speed capabilities (downloads of up to 25-220 Mbps and uploads around 5-20 Mbps), Starlink’s entry is bound to shake up the Indian internet scenario. These speeds, comparable to 4G, offer promise for remote locations where traditional optical fiber and tower connectivity is sporadic at best.

Pricing Models and Expectations

While the specific financial contours of Starlink’s India pricing model remained a closely guarded secret, a source from MoneyControl indicated that initial service cost may hover around ₹1,58,000 during the first year. The insider, emanating from company’s former India head, estimates the second-year cost to be around ₹1,15,000 plus a 30% tax, taking into account Starlink’s one-time purchase equipment.

As for user equipment, the base price is projected to be ₹37,400, coupled with a monthly service charge of ₹7,425, according to MoneyControl. The final pricing silhouette will only crystallize post-license acquisition.

Stay tuned to Reader Wall for more updates about Starlink and its potential impact on the internet environment in India.