Singtel Seeks FDI Approval To Launch Satellite Communication Services In India

Singapore Telecommunications (Singtel) has sought foreign direct investment (FDI) approval to enter India's satellite communication market, the Economic Times reported. The company plans to provide satellite communication services to both government and private sector customers through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Singapore Telecom India Pvt Ltd (STIPL).

Singtel already holds a 26.85% stake in Indian telecom giant Bharti Airtel, but requires separate FDI clearance to establish its satellite communication operations in India. A government official confirmed that the company has submitted the necessary application. Singtel intends to offer connectivity via a fleet of around 28 to 36 geostationary satellites.

As India's satellite broadband sector faces increased competition, Singtel may explore partnerships with other satellite operators, including Elon Musk's Starlink, the application for which is pending government approval. Other global players eyeing India's satellite communication market include Amazon's Leo network, Reliance Jio, and Bharti-backed Eutelsat OneWeb.

The entry of these companies could intensify competition and broaden the availability of satellite-based connectivity across India. For enterprises and public sector organizations, satellite communication could present an alternative connectivity solution in regions where traditional telecom infrastructure is challenging or costly to deploy.