Google, Starlink To Boost India's Digital Infrastructure? Exclusive From Govt Sources

News18

a day ago

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News18 has exclusively accessed the Centre's approval letter to Starlink. News18 spoke to senior government sources on what the developments could mean for India
India's digital infrastructure is set to get a boost. While Google plans to set up a key data centre in India, Starlink has received a licence authorisation for its services in the country. News18 has exclusively accessed the Centre's approval letter to Starlink.
News18 spoke to senior government sources on what this could mean for India.
'Any Internet connectivity is good. Look at the amount of data India consumes. In such a scenario, a Google data centre could easily improve services and reduce the costing, which is great news," sources said.
'Apart from costing and connectivity, such a move would also boost India's global image as an international digital hub. The improvement in global sentiment always works in favour of the country," said sources.
Mumbai, Kochi and Chennai have cable landing centres. The move would reinforce India's role as a key market for Google's AI and cloud growth strategy. 'Data centre will need land. Cables in Mumbai and Kochi would be key to provide services to South Asia."
However, sources said the licensing provisions need to be thrashed out. 'Security should be taken into consideration. India could put a cap in case of cyber attack or a clause seeking cooperation."
Earlier, reports had stated that Google was reportedly close to acquiring a 22.5-acre plot in Navi Mumbai to develop its first self-built data centre in the country. This expansion had come in the wake of Google strengthening its commitment to supporting the rapid adoption of AI and cloud technologies in India.
The LoI granted: 'Unified License with authorizations for VSAT(National Area), ISP A(National Area) and GMPCS (National Area) on non-exclusive basis subject to the guidelines of Unified License dated 17.01.2022 and as amended from time to time".
'The Letter of Intent (Lol) is being issued based on the information/certificate submitted by your application ID UL20221041 dated 08.02.2024 and UL 20210651 dated 14.10.2022 with the condition that at a later date if the information/certificate is found wrong or misleading, the license shall be liable to be terminated. Further, if the information/ certificate/ undertaking being submitted by the company along with the compliance of the Lol, is found wrong or misleading at a later date, then also, the license shall be liable to be terminated or any other action as deemed fit by the licensor," it said.
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