What is Starlink?
- Starlink is a satellite-based internet service operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
- It consists of a low-earth orbit (LEO) constellation of 7,000+ satellites, providing global internet coverage.
- Requires ground terminals (user equipment) to access the internet.
- Offers speeds of ~100 Mbps, but latency is higher than wired broadband.
Relevance : GS 3(Science , Technology)
Starlink’s Utility in India
- Not beneficial in urban areas where 5G and fiber broadband are faster and more reliable.
- Key for rural and remote areas, offering connectivity where terrestrial networks are absent.
- Provides an instant internet solution in areas where infrastructure development is slow.
Regulatory Hurdles in India
- GMPCS Authorisation: Needed under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 for satellite communication services.
- Security Clearance: Ministry of Home Affairs approval pending.
- Ground Station Regulations: Indian law requires telecom networks to have tapping provisions for security agencies.
- Spectrum Allocation:
- Indian government does not favor auctions for satellite spectrum.
- Jio and Airtel earlier demanded auctions, citing the Supreme Court’s 2012 ruling on scarce resources (2G spectrum case).
- The government may allocate spectrum directly (common international practice).
Trade & Geopolitical Influence
- U.S. Trade Pressure:
- Elon Musk has increasing influence in the U.S. government.
- Potential U.S. lobbying to fast-track Starlink’s entry.
- India-U.S. Relations:
- Strong trade ties could influence regulatory decisions in favor of Starlink.
- Starlink’s entry might be fast-tracked if U.S. pressure intensifies.
Recent Developments
- Airtel & Jio Agreements:
- Signed distribution pacts despite earlier opposition.
- Indicates a possible softening stance on satellite broadband.
- No Official Announcements:
- Regulatory approvals still pending.
- Government’s final decision on spectrum allocation remains uncertain.
