The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is fast-tracking the licensing process for Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite unit, anticipating Musk’s visit to India later this month. Reports from Moneycontrol suggest that the DoT is poised to issue a letter of intent (LoI) along with trial spectrum to Starlink for its satellite communications services.

A government official disclosed that inter-ministerial discussions are underway, primarily concerning security considerations. Starlink, an offering of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, promises high-speed internet connectivity via satellite technology. Musk is scheduled to visit India on April 21 and 22, during which he will hold meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior government officials.

With the potential allocation of global mobile personal communication by satellite services (GMPCS) and trial spectrum, Starlink aims to conduct consumer-oriented service trials. However, the company must secure approvals from various government bodies, including the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and security agencies, given the Modi administration’s security concerns.

Previously, Starlink addressed concerns regarding its ownership structure to the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). Citing US regulations, the Elon Musk-led company explained its inability to disclose all ownership details, emphasizing the absence of investors from countries sharing land borders with India.