Elon Musk’s Starlink could bring satellite internet to remote parts of India, but its entry raises questions about market competition, foreign control of communications infrastructure and national security.
\n\nStarlink has received a satellite communications licence in India, but security compliance and spectrum-related requirements remain before it can begin commercial services.
\n\nAlso read: Why Elon Musk's 'Starlink compliance claim' is blatantly false
\n\nCan India avoid dependence on a single provider?
\n\nOperated by SpaceX, Starlink has a substantial head start, with more than 11,000 satellites in low Earth orbit as of October 6. Its global network, launch capabilities and financial resources could make it difficult for newer competitors to match its scale.
\n\nCommunications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said on October 9 that India does not permit monopolies in any sector.
\n\n“Let me be very clear. India does not allow a monopoly in any sector,” Scindia said, adding that Amazon was another prospective entrant that would have to follow the prescribed process.
\n\nOther operators include Jio Satellite Communications and Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb. Jio also has a satellite transmission-services joint venture with Luxembourg-based SES. Their capabilities and business models, however, differ from Starlink’s direct-to-consumer offering.
\n\nWho controls access to satellite connectivity?
\n\nStarlink’s network is operated…
Original source: https://www.cnbctv18.com/technology/
