Government to Amazon and Elon Musk's Starlink: Your satellite application can be processed only after ...

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has reportedly imposed stringent security requirements on Elon Musk's Starlink and Jeff Bezos's Amazon before approving their satellite communication services in India. According to a report in Economic Times, both companies are expected to provide detailed compliance information regarding data security, coverage area, and other key parameters.

While Bharti-backed OneWeb and Reliance Jio's partnership with SES have already secured approval, Starlink and Amazon's applications are still pending due to the additional security checks.

Strict security guidelines and declaration

Officials aware of the details told ET that letters to both the US-based firms were sent recently and the department is awaiting their reply. "Their applications can be processed only after they submit the compliance. The firms have so far not replied," said a person familiar with the details.

Another official said that the government will wait for some more time for their reply, but the applications won't be processed till they agree to all the security conditions. "There are various security-related compliances as well as those related to data, coverage area etc which satcom providers have to give to the government in order to offer services in India. All the boxes need to be ticked," said a third official.

As per security requirements, the terminals have to stop communicating if there is a change in latitude and longitude position in order to prevent any misuse. In its replies to the government, Starlink had reportedly given a declaration that none of its investors were from countries sharing a land border with India -- primarily China and Pakistan. The government had accepted that declaration.

Why government is extra cautious on security

The government's cautious approach is driven by concerns over potential security risks, especially given the strategic importance of satellite communications. The DoT is particularly interested in ensuring that satellite terminals near border areas are securely monitored and controlled to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is currently working on recommendations for pricing and other terms and conditions for allocating satellite spectrum. However, traditional telecom operators like Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Vodafone Idea are advocating for a level playing field, arguing that satellite companies should be subject to the same regulations and liabilities as terrestrial operators.



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