Satellite internet services in India have not yet begun commercial operations due to pending security approvals and unresolved spectrum pricing, Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has said.
Companies such as Starlink, OneWeb and Jio Satellite Global Services have already received licences to operate in the country. However, Scindia clarified that services can start only after all regulatory and security conditions are fully met.
The minister said satellite communication companies must demonstrate compliance with national security norms. These include setting up lawful interception systems for security agencies, ensuring secure handling of Indian user data, and establishing approved international gateways. Security agencies must be satisfied with these arrangements before giving the final clearance.
To support this process, the government has allotted provisional spectrum to the companies so they can test their systems and prove compliance. Final spectrum allocation will be granted only after security requirements are fulfilled.
Another key factor delaying the launch is spectrum pricing. The Department of Telecommunications and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India are still discussing the pricing framework for satellite internet services. Issues such as the method of charging spectrum fees and the overall cost structure are yet to be finalised.
Differences between the regulator and the department on certain pricing elements have slowed the decision-making process. The final pricing policy is expected to be cleared by senior government bodies, including the Digital Communication Commission and, if required, the Cabinet.
Scindia said the government is keen to promote satellite internet services, especially for improving connectivity in remote and underserved regions. However, he stressed that security and regulatory safeguards remain a priority.
Once security clearances are completed and spectrum pricing is approved, satellite internet services are expected to be rolled out in a phased manner across India.