Starlink Gets Approval To Use Aadhaar Authentication For Satellite Internet Services

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced that Elon Musk-owned Starlink Satellite Communication Pvt Ltd has received authorisation to use Aadhaar-based customer verification for its satellite Internet services in the country, TOI has reported. This follows recent government clearance allowing the company to commence satellite broadband operations across India.

Earlier this month, India's Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issued a Unified Licence to Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited following the company's agreement to comply with comprehensive regulatory requirements. The approval came with stringent data protection mandates that ensure complete information sovereignty.

Onboarding Through Digital Identity

"The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has onboarded satellite-based internet provider Starlink Satellite Communication Pvt Ltd. Starlink will use Aadhaar Authentication for customer verification, which will make the entire process smooth, secure and very easy," the official statement announced.

The integration positions Starlink to likely serve approximately 20 lakh (2 million) customers initially, based on current capacity assessments from government sources.

The collaboration represents a significant convergence of international satellite technology and India's established digital verification framework.

"Starlink's onboarding with Aadhaar authentication signifies a powerful synergy: India's trusted digital identity joining hands with global satellite technology. Aadhaar e-KYC will facilitate the onboarding of users seamlessly, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while delivering high-speed internet to households, businesses, and institutions," authorities were quoted as saying in the report.

Implementation Process

The formal designation of Starlink Satellite Communication as both a sub-authentication user agency and sub-eKYC user agency took place with senior officials present, including UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar, UIDAI Deputy Director General Manish Bhardwaj, and Starlink India Director Parnil Urdhwareshe.

Distribution Strategy

To expand its market reach, Starlink has established distribution partnerships with two major Indian telecommunications companies -- Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio -- for service delivery across the country.