**Starlink Secures GMPCS License, Enters Indian Satellite Internet Market**
Starlink, the satellite internet service from SpaceX, has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite (GMPCS) license from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in India. This development, announced on Friday, marks Starlink’s official entry into the Indian market, joining the ranks of Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite in the satellite internet sector.
The GMPCS license was granted just a month after Starlink received a letter of intent (LoI) from the telecom department, allowing the company to initiate its services in India. However, before launching its satellite services, Starlink must secure approval from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) for its satellite constellation and deployment plans.
The GMPCS license enables companies to provide voice and data services via satellite and is valid for 20 years, permitting operations in designated service areas. In addition to the GMPCS license, Starlink has also acquired internet service provider (ISP) and very small aperture terminal (VSAT) licenses from the government.
According to a government official, Starlink is expected to receive trial spectrum shortly to test its services and ensure compliance with national security regulations. The government has also allocated spectrum to OneWeb and Jio, emphasizing the importance of adhering to security norms, including lawful interception, network control, geo-fencing, and data localization.
This licensing comes at a crucial time as India aims to finalize a bilateral trade agreement with the United States to avert a potential 26% reciprocal tariff before the July 9 deadline. Notably, Elon Musk recently announced his departure from the Trump administration, stepping down from his role as head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Starlink initially applied for the GMPCS license in 2022, a necessary regulatory step for satellite communications in India. The company began accepting bookings for its services from Indian customers in 2021, prior to obtaining the license, but was later instructed by the government to halt these bookings. In compliance, Starlink refunded over 5,000 pre-booked customers.
As Starlink prepares to launch its satellite services in India, it awaits the final approval from IN-SPACe, which will be crucial for its operational rollout.
**FAQ**
**What is the significance of the GMPCS license for Starlink?**
The GMPCS license allows Starlink to provide satellite-based voice and data services in India, marking its official entry into the country’s satellite internet market.