India Blocks Starlink's State Deals Over Missing License

The Centre has now told these states to halt all talks, according to a government official cited by businessline. "The Centre has questioned the company on how it could sign agreements with State governments without a licence," the official said. "It has also told States that have signed LoIs/MoUs with Starlink, and warned others, not to proceed without a go-ahead from the Centre."

Sources said the government is still examining security aspects of satellite communications, especially in border states where insurgent groups could misuse the technology. "The government wants the technology to be fool proof and some related commitments from Starlink before it issues a license," the sources added.

Starlink has reapplied to the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre for its Gen 2 constellation, which would operate at an altitude of 340-615 km in low Earth orbit. Musk posted on X on Friday that Starlink "would help the least served in India, especially in rural areas." The company continues to seek approvals to begin operations.

The episode echoes a broader theme of regulatory friction in India's technology markets, as noted in a recent analysis of gradual policy build-up. Starlink's India license remains pending as the government seeks commitments on security and compliance.