Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, is one step closer to ensuring its entry into the Indian market after agreeing to comply with the government’s data localization and security requirements, according to a report in Moneycontrol.

The cited report said Starlink’s commitment comes after several meetings with India’s Department of Telecommunications (DOT), where the company submitted the key documents required for the grant of Satellite Broadband Services License, also known as GMPCS license. Agreed “in principle” to follow the guidelines. While Starlink has not yet formally submitted its compliance agreement, the move indicates that the company is getting closer to launching its services in India.

Data localization rules mandate that satellite communications companies store all user data within India and allow government intelligence agencies to intercept the data if needed. Compliance with these rules is a prerequisite for obtaining a GMPCS license, which allows satellite Internet providers to acquire test spectrum and begin initial operations.

Starlink, which first applied for a GMPCS license in October 2022, is also working with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) for further approval. The space regulator has sought more details from Starlink and its rival, Amazon’s Project Kuiper, before moving forward with their applications. IN-SPACe Chairman Pawan Kumar Goenka confirmed the development money controlIn which it is said that both the companies are in the process of answering the questions raised by the regulator.

Starlink’s progress in India coincides with discussions about Elon Musk’s possible involvement in the administration of US President-elect Donald Trump, who has mentioned giving Musk a key role. The connection could improve Starlink’s impact as it looks to expand its satellite internet services globally, including in India.

The final hurdles for Starlink’s India launch include the government setting pricing and spectrum allocation rules for satellite broadband services. More information about this is expected to be revealed soon.