Satellite Internet Providers Must Pass Security Clearance Before Launch

Companies licensed to offer satellite internet services in India, including Starlink, Reliance Jio's satellite arm, and Eutelsat OneWeb, must obtain individual security clearances before commencing operations. Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced this requirement at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) in New Delhi on October 9, 2026.

Scindia did not provide a timeline for the security clearances or final decisions on spectrum charges. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recommended in May 2025 that satcom operators pay 4% of their adjusted gross revenue as spectrum fees. According to Scindia, TRAI and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) are nearing a final decision on this matter.

The responsibility for security clearance lies with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which assesses companies' compliance with security requirements. Scindia clarified that the MHA makes these determinations independently. Regarding reports of defense payloads from foreign satellite operators, he stated that the MHA is investigating.

Scindia also identified Amazon's Project Kuiper as a fourth applicant seeking a license, who will undergo the same process. Spectrum will be assigned administratively, not through auction. The press conference followed allegations by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk that "certain oligarchs" were blocking Starlink in India, and a response from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Scindia emphasized that India does not permit monopolies in any sector.

Additionally, Scindia reported that the Sanchar Saathi app has recorded 300 million downloads. The app's prior mandatory pre-installation on devices was withdrawn in December 2025 following privacy concerns. Scindia also mentioned that approximately 70 million suspected fraudulent phones have been disconnected.