Bharti Enterprises Chairman Sunil Mittal has called for early regulatory approval for Eutelsat OneWeb, hoping it gets the green light a few days before Elon Musk’s Starlink enters the Indian market. The appeal comes as competition in India’s satellite internet sector gathers momentum, with both companies seeking to expand their presence in the country.
Mittal said OneWeb had applied for the necessary permissions around five years ago and had been waiting for the process to reach its conclusion. He added that he would be happy if the company received approval even a few days before Starlink, highlighting the importance of timely regulatory decisions for businesses investing in satellite communication.
OneWeb Has Been Waiting for Regulatory Clearance
OneWeb, backed by Bharti Enterprises and France-based Eutelsat, is developing satellite-based broadband services designed to provide connectivity across a wide range of locations. The company aims to serve areas where conventional internet infrastructure may be difficult or expensive to establish.
According to Mittal, OneWeb has prepared its operational capabilities and is ready to provide services in India. However, commercial deployment depends on completing the necessary regulatory and security-related requirements.
The prolonged approval process has brought attention to the challenges faced by satellite communication companies seeking to enter India’s telecommunications market. Such services require compliance with licensing conditions, security requirements, spectrum rules and other government regulations.
Starlink’s India Entry Intensifies Competition
Starlink, operated by SpaceX and founded by Elon Musk, is also looking to establish its satellite internet services in India. Its entry could increase competition in a market where demand for reliable, high-speed internet continues to grow.
The comparison between OneWeb and Starlink has become an important talking point because both companies use satellite technology to deliver connectivity beyond the reach of conventional broadband networks. However, their business models, satellite systems and target customer segments may differ.
Mittal’s remarks underline the significance of regulatory timing as companies compete to establish their positions. At the same time, approval timelines depend on the completion of the required procedures rather than commercial competition alone.
Mittal Emphasises Fair and Consistent Regulation
The Bharti Enterprises chairman has highlighted the need for a transparent regulatory framework that allows companies to compete under fair conditions. Businesses investing in new technologies require clarity on licensing, spectrum access and operating requirements to plan their services and investments effectively.
Satellite communication is a relatively new and evolving segment of the telecommunications industry. Regulators must balance the need to encourage innovation with national security, efficient spectrum use and consumer interests.
A predictable approval process could help companies make long-term investment decisions while supporting the development of India’s digital infrastructure.
Satellite Internet Could Improve Connectivity
Satellite broadband has the potential to expand internet access in remote villages, rural communities and geographically challenging regions where fibre-optic networks and mobile infrastructure may be limited.
Improved connectivity could benefit households, businesses, educational institutions, healthcare providers and government services. It could also support digital adoption in areas where reliable internet access remains a challenge.
However, the wider adoption of satellite internet will depend on factors such as service pricing, coverage, network performance, regulatory approvals and competition from existing broadband providers.
What Lies Ahead for India’s Satellite Internet Market?
The developments surrounding OneWeb and Starlink reflect the growing importance of satellite technology in India’s digital connectivity plans. Their entry could give consumers and businesses additional options, particularly in underserved areas.
For now, the focus remains on the regulatory process and the conditions required for commercial operations. Mittal’s comments have renewed attention on OneWeb’s long wait for approval and the importance of timely decisions as India’s satellite internet market prepares for greater competition.
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News Desk
