Starlink nudges India to fast-track approval: report

Elon Musk’s SpaceX-owned internet services firm Starlink has asked India to fast-track its license application to begin operations, Mint reported on Thursday, citing people in the know.

Top officials of the company reportedly made the request during a meeting with trade and commerce minister Piyush Goyal this week.

A Starlink delegation comprising company vice-president Chad Gibbs and senior director Ryan Goodnight met Goyal this week, the minister posted on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter).

Goyal said the discussions focused on Starlink’s “cutting-edge satellite internet technology platform, their existing partnerships in India, and future investment plans.

Met a delegation from @Starlink, comprising of Vice President Chad Gibbs & Senior Director, Ryan Goodnight.

Discussions covered Starlink’s cutting-edge technology platform, their existing partnerships & future investment plans in India. pic.twitter.com/mX66Y6Ltsn

— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) April 16, 2025

In March, Jio Platforms Ltd and Bharti Airtel Ltd announced separate deals with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to roll out Starlink’s high-speed internet services in India.

Both agreements with Jio and Airtel are subject to SpaceX receiving its own authorizations to sell Starlink services in India.

The US-based satellite internet provider is currently awaiting security clearance, with the ministry of home affairs reviewing the application.

Goyal’s discussions with Starlink officials reflect India’s interest in leveraging Starlink’s low-earth orbit satellite network to improve connectivity, especially in remote and underserved regions.