New Delhi: Billionaire Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink has taken a significant step towards entering the Indian market by agreeing to comply with the government’s data localization and security requirements. This move comes after several meetings with India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT), where Starlink agreed “in principle” to adhere to key guidelines essential for obtaining a satellite broadband services license.

According to the information, the data localization rules mandate that satellite communication companies store all user data within India and allow government intelligence agencies to intercept data when needed. In India, compliance with these rules is a prerequisite for obtaining the GMPCS license, which allows satellite internet providers to acquire trial spectrum and begin initial operations.

While Starlink has yet to formally submit its compliance agreement, this move indicates that the company is inching closer to launching its services in India. 

Reportedly, Starlink, which first applied for the GMPCS licence in October 2022, is also working with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) for further approvals. The space regulator has asked Starlink and its competitor, Amazon ’s Project Kuiper, for more details before moving forward with their applications. 

Starlink’s progress in India coincides with discussions about Elon Musk’s potential involvement in the administration of US president-elect Donald Trump , who has mentioned giving Musk a significant role. This connection could improve Starlink’s influence as it seeks to expand its satellite internet services globally, including in India.