01-08-2025
Elon Musk's Starlink approved in India: Monthly cost, entry kit price, and where it will work first—full details inside
India has granted Elon Musk's Starlink official approval to begin satellite-based internet services. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a Unified Licence to the company, allowing it to operate under the current spectrum regulations. The announcement comes as India marks 30 years since its first cellular call was made on July 31, 1995.
Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia confirmed the approval and said that both the spectrum allocation framework and gateway setup are ready to support a smooth rollout of Starlink's services in the country.
Delayed approval due to regulatory hurdles
Starlink's application was initially submitted in 2021 but faced delays due to regulatory checks and discussions over satellite spectrum distribution. While the licence has now been granted, Starlink cannot start commercial services until the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) finalises the spectrum allocation framework. A consultation paper by TRAI on satellite spectrum is currently under review, and Starlink must wait for its outcome before it can proceed.
Union Communications Minister @JM_Scindia addresses Mobile Conclave on the occasion of 30 years of mobile telephony in New Scindia highlights that India's digital journey in the last 11 years has been also says #ElonMusk-led Starlink has received a…
Pricing and plans: One-time and monthly charges
According to reports, SpaceX plans to charge a one-time hardware cost of around Rs 33,000, which will cover the Starlink kit including the satellite dish, router, and mounting gear. Monthly subscriptions are expected to be priced at approximately Rs 3,000 for unlimited data.
There are indications of a promotional plan at around Rs 850/month, but this is yet to be officially confirmed. Internet speeds are likely to range between 25 Mbps and 220 Mbps, catering to users in areas with poor or no internet access.
To begin with, Starlink will be available to a maximum of 2 million users across India, targeting primarily rural and remote regions.
India's satellite Internet race heats up
Starlink's entry puts it in competition with other global and domestic players. Eutelsat OneWeb, backed by Bharti Group, and Jio's joint venture with SES from Luxembourg, have also received regulatory approvals. However, like Starlink, they are waiting for spectrum allocation before starting commercial operations.
"We will do our best to serve the people of India with Starlink."一 Elon Musk
As per the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), satellite-based internet is likely to play a major role in expanding coverage in areas where fibre-based infrastructure is not practical. The IAMAI-Kantar ICUBE Report 2023 highlights that over 65% of India's rural population still lacks reliable internet access, underlining the demand for satellite-driven solutions.
India's digital push and Starlink's role
Minister Scindia used the announcement to highlight India's digital transformation over the past decade. He credited the progress made in digital infrastructure to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that the last 11 years have been 'nothing short of extraordinary.'
With the Unified Licence in place, Starlink now waits for the final nod on spectrum. Once approved, its low-earth orbit satellites will begin delivering internet to underserved locations, marking a significant step in India's push toward inclusive digital access.
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