Airtel, Jio Ready for Starlink Rollout: When Will SpaceX Get Approval?

India’s telecom sector is witnessing a shift as satellite internet gains traction. Airtel and Jio, the country’s leading telecom players, have both signed agreements with SpaceX to offer Starlink broadband services. However, these agreements are contingent on regulatory approvals.

The deal allows Airtel and SpaceX to explore how Starlink can integrate with Airtel’s existing services and leverage its market expertise. Meanwhile, Jio plans to offer Starlink through its retail outlets and online platforms once regulatory hurdles are cleared.

SpaceX’s India Plans: What We Know
Airtel and Jio will offer Starlink equipment through their retail networks.
Services will extend to businesses and remote communities, including schools and healthcare centers.
Airtel’s Managing Director, Gopal Vittal, called the agreement a milestone for next-generation satellite connectivity.
Despite the partnerships, Starlink still requires a government license to operate commercially in India.

Regulatory Roadblocks: Why Is SpaceX Still Waiting?

SpaceX’s entry into the Indian market is stalled due to several regulatory and policy concerns:

Licensing Delays: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has not yet granted the necessary approvals.
TRAI’s Concerns: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is yet to establish a clear framework for satellite internet services.
Security Considerations: Authorities are evaluating risks linked to a foreign company providing internet services in India.
Market Disruption: With India’s highly competitive telecom market, Starlink’s pricing model remains a challenge for widespread adoption.
 

Jio’s Plans for Starlink in India

Jio’s agreement with SpaceX includes:

Integrating Starlink into its broadband offerings.
Selling Starlink equipment via retail stores.
Providing customer support for installation and activation.
Exploring further collaboration with SpaceX to enhance digital connectivity in India.

Mathew Oommen, Group CEO of Reliance Jio, emphasized Jio’s commitment to ensuring affordable high-speed broadband across the country.

What is Starlink?
Starlink, developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, provides high-speed, low-latency internet via a network of low-Earth orbit satellites. It supports:

Streaming
Online gaming
Video calls
General browsing

Government’s Stance on Starlink
At the Republic’s Plenary Summit 2025, Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated that India would not impose restrictions on foreign telecom companies, potentially paving the way for Starlink’s operations.

"We are not scared of anyone. Our doors are open for everyone to come and use an opportunity in India to grow and to serve our country, men and women, and to serve the world," said Scindia.

Previously, in November, Scindia mentioned that Starlink would need to comply with all regulations to obtain a license in India.
"They (Starlink) have to comply with all rules to get the license. You have to look at it from a security perspective as well. They are in the process of doing it. Once all requirements are met, they will get the license," he told PTI.


What’s Next for Starlink in India?
The agreements with Airtel and Jio mark a significant step, but SpaceX has been awaiting regulatory clearance since 2022. Despite discussions between Elon Musk and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on space and technology collaborations, national security concerns have contributed to delays.

With Airtel and Jio ready to roll out Starlink services, the government’s decision on SpaceX’s regulatory approval remains the biggest question in the industry.