The Ministry of Electronics and IT on Wednesday said the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has onboarded Starlink Satellite Communication Pvt Ltd. This will allow the global satellite internet provider to use Aadhaar-based authentication for verifying customers in India. The move will enable paperless and secure customer onboarding in line with Know Your Customer (KYC) norms. Aadhaar will make the process “smooth, secure and seamless”, the ministry said in a press release.
The integration marks what the ministry called a “powerful synergy” between India’s digital identity platform and cutting-edge satellite technology. Aadhaar e-KYC will allow Starlink to quickly onboard households, businesses and institutions as it rolls out high-speed satellite internet across the country.
UIDAI clarified that Aadhaar authentication for users will remain voluntary, in line with existing guidelines. Starlink has been designated as both a Sub-Authentication User Agency and Sub-eKYC User Agency.
The ministry further highlighted Aadhaar’s role as the foundation of India’s digital public infrastructure and said the system has become a catalyst for ease of living and doing business. It noted that Aadhaar’s face authentication solution is gaining traction among number holders for its simplicity and convenience.
“The use of Aadhaar authentication by a global satellite internet provider demonstrates the scalability and reliability of India’s digital infrastructure,” the ministry added.
