Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to meet Elon Musk this week during his visit to the United States. According to a Reuters report citing sources familiar with the matter, their discussions are expected to focus on Starlink’s ongoing efforts to enter the Indian market.
During the two-day visit, beginning on Wednesday, Modi will also meet with U.S. President Donald Trump, with trade negotiations and tariff reductions expected to be key topics of discussion.
Musk is scheduled for a private meeting with Modi, where the Indian government is expected to urge him to expedite the pending license approval for Starlink, Reuters reported. While India supports Musk’s stance that satellite spectrum should be allocated rather than auctioned, Starlink’s application remains under review.
Sources cited by Reuters revealed that “Musk is open to providing assurances to address India’s security concerns, including ensuring that data is stored locally.”
Neither Starlink nor Modi’s office has responded to requests for comment on the matter, Reuters noted.
In December, Musk stated that Starlink services were non-functional in India following the confiscation of two company devices by authorities—one from a war zone and another linked to a drug trafficking investigation, according to the report.
While it remains uncertain whether Tesla’s entry into India will be discussed, the meeting is expected to cover ways to enhance the procurement of electric vehicle components from India, Reuters reported.
Musk has previously raised concerns about India's high import tariffs on electric cars. Although discussions about setting up a local Tesla factory have taken place over the years, no concrete plans have been finalized.
According to Reuters, aside from Musk, Modi is not expected to meet with other business leaders during his U.S. visit.
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