Modi and Musk to Discuss Starlink’s India Launch During U.S. Visit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet with Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk during his upcoming visit to the United States. The meeting is expected to focus on Starlink’s potential entry into the Indian market, aiming to expand satellite broadband services across the country.

Meeting Agenda

Modi’s two-day U.S. visit includes high-level discussions with American leadership on various strategic and economic topics. Alongside these engagements, his planned meeting with Musk is set to explore how Starlink can help bridge India’s digital divide by providing high-speed satellite internet services in rural and remote areas.

Starlink’s Interest in India

Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, has been keen to launch its services in India but has faced regulatory challenges, primarily concerning spectrum allocation. The company has been advocating for direct spectrum allocation rather than participating in auctions, a stance that has met resistance from major Indian telecom operators.

The Indian government has shown support for the idea of assigning spectrum rather than auctioning it, potentially benefiting Starlink’s expansion plans. However, Starlink’s application for an operating license is still under review.

Concerns from Indian Telecom Operators

The prospect of Starlink entering India has raised concerns among local telecom giants. Companies that have invested heavily in spectrum auctions fear losing broadband and future 5G customers to satellite-based internet services. Some industry leaders argue that allowing non-auction-based spectrum allocation could disrupt market dynamics and impact existing telecom investments.

Data Localization and Security Measures

Addressing concerns about data security, Musk is reportedly open to ensuring that all Indian user data is stored within the country. This step aligns with India’s stringent data localization policies and aims to reassure regulatory authorities regarding cybersecurity and privacy compliance.

Modi and Musk’s Previous Interactions

This isn’t the first time Modi and Musk have engaged in discussions about Starlink. During Modi’s previous visit to the U.S. in 2023, Musk expressed his interest in bringing Starlink’s satellite internet services to India. He highlighted how Starlink could provide connectivity to remote villages and regions lacking reliable internet infrastructure.

Potential Impact on India’s Digital Future
If Starlink is granted approval, it could revolutionize internet connectivity in India, particularly in rural and underserved regions. Satellite broadband technology has the potential to enhance digital education, telemedicine, and e-governance services by providing seamless connectivity where traditional broadband infrastructure is lacking.

Source: reuters.com