Reliance Says Jio Awaits Same Clearances as Starlink
Reliance Industries, led by billionaire Mukesh Ambani, has said it welcomes competition from Elon Musk’s Starlink and that its own satellite internet services are also awaiting government clearance. The statement marks Reliance’s first public response to allegations that Ambani was obstructing Starlink’s entry into India. The Indian government has denied favouring any company in the approval process.
Starlink said it had worked with Indian regulators and industry stakeholders for more than five years and had established infrastructure in the country with the necessary government approvals. Musk responded positively to Reliance’s statement. Although Starlink, Jio’s satellite internet division and Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb have received operating licences, security clearances are still required before services can launch.
The development comes ahead of Jio Platforms’ planned initial public offering, which is seeking a valuation of $108 billion. Jio, with more than 530 million telecom customers, could compete with Starlink in India’s satellite internet market. Affordable pricing is expected to be a key factor, as satellite broadband could expand connectivity in rural and remote areas where traditional internet access remains limited.
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