Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to meet with tech billionaire Elon Musk during his US tour this week. The meeting could see discussions around Starlink’s long-awaited entry into India, Reuters reported. The satellite Internet service, a part of Musk’s SpaceX venture, has faced regulatory obstacles but the Indian government seems to have an open possibility of further talks regarding its expansion in the South Asian market.
Starlink has been interested in making its presence in India but has experienced regulatory concerns and competition from domestic telecom giants. The major point of dispute has been the allotment of spectrum for satellite-based internet services. Mukesh Ambani’s telecom firm has advocated spectrum auctions to ensure there is a fair playing field whereas Starlink is seeking direct spectrum assignments.
The satellite’s internet provider’s potential entry into India has been viewed as a troublesome move that could challenge domestic broadband players. Ambani’s firms have expressed that Starlink’s presence could affect its broadband and future telecom services as it has invested billions in acquiring future telecom services.
In terms of India’s security concerns, Musk has reportedly indicated a keenness in adhering to the data localisation requirements, ensuring that Indian user data will be stored in the country, the Reuters’ report said.
Is Tesla also on the meeting agenda?
The major focus of the discussion is anticipated to be on Starlink but it remains unclear whether Tesla’s entry into India will also be on the meeting’s agenda. Musk has long expressed his interest in entering the Indian market but has also expressed his concern related to the country’s high import duties on electric vehicles. Although discussions on setting up a local manufacturing unit have been going on, Tesla is yet to make any major move in this direction. However, another topic that can be discussed in Modi and Musk’s talks could be increased sourcing of EV components from India.
An official statement regarding the meeting has not been issued either by the Modi government or by Starlink.