Space
India Grants Satellite Communications Licences to Jio, OneWeb and Starlink
India has granted satellite‑communications licences to three companies – Jio, OneWeb and Starlink – and officials say the process was fully transparent. According to government sources, the decision will ultimately be driven by consumers, who will choose services based on price, value and quality. Elon Musk’s Starlink was the last to apply for and receive its licence, after OneWeb and Jio, but all three have been required to demonstrate their capabilities and meet prescribed security requirements. Two steps remain before the services can be launched on a large scale: a decision on spectrum allocation and pricing, and the fulfilment of security requirements by all three companies. Once these conditions are met, the satellite‑communications ecosystem in India is expected to benefit as a whole.
Frequently asked questions
Which companies received satellite communications licences in India?
Jio, OneWeb, and Starlink.
What are the remaining steps before the services can be launched on a large scale?
A decision on spectrum allocation and pricing, and the fulfilment of security requirements by all three companies.
Which company applied last for a licence?
Elon Musk’s Starlink.