Indian Govt. denies special treatment for Elon Musk’s Starlink in satellite spectrum Allocation

The Ministry of Communications has firmly denied suggestions that the decision to allocate satellite spectrum through an administrative process was intended to benefit Elon Musk’s Starlink. Addressing a query in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Communications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar clarified that the Telecommunications Act, 2023, allows for such spectrum assignments for satellite-based services as outlined in its First Schedule.

The Minister emphasised that the framework applies broadly to satellite communication services and is not tailored to any specific company. The suggestion that Starlink influenced the government’s approach, he said, is entirely unfounded.

Revenue and spectrum allocation

Concerns about revenue loss due to the administrative allocation of spectrum were also addressed. The Minister explained that administratively assigned spectrum is not free — it is chargeable and contributes to government revenue.

He added that the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has sought recommendations from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on terms and pricing for spectrum allocation. This process, he assured, will maintain a fair playing field between satellite-based services and traditional terrestrial communication providers.

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Safeguards against misuse

Responding to concerns about the potential misuse of satellite services by non-state actors or hostile entities, the Minister highlighted the stringent licensing framework in place.

Under the Unified License (UL) regime, satellite-based communication providers must comply with strict licensing terms, including robust security conditions. These safeguards, he stated, are designed to ensure that any satellite communication services in India operate within secure and regulated parameters.

A transparent approach

The government’s clarification comes as satellite-based internet services gain global attention, with companies like Starlink aiming to expand operations. By rejecting claims of bias, the Ministry has underscored its commitment to transparency and fairness in policymaking. The administrative allocation of spectrum, it argues, supports innovation while adhering to national security and regulatory frameworks.

This measured approach is intended to encourage investment in satellite communications while addressing concerns about competition and security, paving the way for a balanced and forward-looking communications landscape in India.