Starlink Gets Government Nod with Strict Data Security Rules

The Indian government has officially granted approval to Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, but with strict conditions to ensure user data security.

Minister of State for Communications, Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, said that Starlink agreed to follow Indian laws and comply with all security requirements before receiving the permit. A major condition is that the company cannot transfer or copy Indian user data outside the country. This includes a ban on decrypting data overseas or mirroring Indian traffic on systems located abroad.

To ensure better monitoring and compliance, satellite internet providers such as Starlink have also been directed to set up earth station gateways within India. These gateways will be the main route for communication between satellites and local users, ensuring that traffic remains under Indian jurisdiction.

The move highlights the government’s growing emphasis on data sovereignty and national security as foreign satellite firms look to expand their services in the Indian market. Strong regulatory oversight has become increasingly important after security agencies raised concerns about the misuse of satellite communication services in sensitive border areas.

Starlink, which provides internet through its constellation of low-earth orbit satellites, has been waiting for formal clearance to start operations in India. With this approval now in place, the service could soon expand access to reliable broadband connections in remote and rural areas where traditional internet services remain limited.