Starlink Gets Approval With Mandatory Data Localisation Requirements

The Indian government has officially confirmed that Elon Musk's satellite Internet venture will be required to maintain complete data sovereignty within the country's borders as part of its operational license conditions, Times Of India has reported.

DoT Issues Unified License 

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

Also read: Starlink India Launch Limited To 20 Lakh Users With 200 Mbps Speed Cap: Govt.

Parliamentary disclosure has revealed that the Elon Musk-owned satellite Internet provider has committed to establishing all necessary infrastructure domestically. Dr Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, informed the Rajya Sabha through written correspondence about the specific compliance measures.

Comprehensive Data Protection Framework

The licensing conditions establish a robust framework for protecting Indian telecommunications data. Key requirements include mandatory establishment of earth station gateways within national boundaries, prohibition of routing Indian user communications through foreign infrastructure, and complete prevention of data duplication on overseas systems.

The security framework specifically prohibits any copying or decryption of Indian user information outside the country's jurisdiction. All user traffic originating from or directed to Indian customers must remain within the domestic telecommunications infrastructure.

Spectrum Allocation Process Underway

The telecommunications authority is currently seeking guidance from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) regarding spectrum assignment protocols. This consultation will determine both technical specifications and pricing structures for satellite-based communication services.

Economic Impact

Government officials expect significant economic benefits from the satellite communication sector's expansion. The minister highlighted that this emerging technology sector will likely create substantial employment opportunities across various segments including network installation, operational management, and maintenance services.

Starlink's regulatory journey in India reached a crucial milestone with the June issuance of its Unified License. This was followed by a five-year operational authorisation from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre in the subsequent month.