NEW DELHI — India's Department of Telecommunications advanced its review of Elon Musk's Starlink application on Friday to operate a satellite network with direct-to-device technology. The reapplication seeks clearance for services connecting standard mobile phones directly to satellites.

Starlink, the satellite unit of SpaceX, resubmitted its bid this week after earlier attempts stalled over compliance and data localisation requirements. The company holds a Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite licence but still requires spectrum allocation and security clearances before commercial launch in India.

The direct-to-device component has drawn particular attention because it would allow ordinary smartphones to receive connectivity in areas without cellular coverage. Indian carriers including Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have raised concerns over spectrum pricing and a level playing field, arguing that satellite operators should face comparable regulatory obligations.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has recommended administrative allocation of satellite spectrum rather than an auction, a position welcomed by Starlink but contested by terrestrial operators. A Department of Telecommunications spokesperson said security vetting and ground-station requirements remain central to any final approval.

Brokerage analysts tracking the sector said a clearance would open one of the world's largest untapped connectivity markets, where hundreds of millions of people in rural areas lack reliable broadband. Any decision is expected to shape competition among satellite providers including Amazon's Project Kuiper and the OneWeb venture backed by Bharti.