Starlink officially enters India, to offer satellite internet in this state first

Maharashtra becomes the first Indian state to partner with Elon Musk's Starlink for satellite internet.

Elon Musk’s Starlink has officially taken a major step towards launching satellite internet in India, with Maharashtra becoming the first state to partner with the company. The state government announced the collaboration on Wednesday, marking the beginning of a new phase in India’s digital infrastructure push.

Maharashtra takes the lead

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis meets Vice President and Senior Director– Starlink Business Operations, SpaceX, Lauren Dreyer, in Mumbai on Thursday. (@Dev_Fadnavis X)

By Ayushmann Chawla

Ayushmann Chawla is the Deputy Chief Content Producer at Hindustan Times. A seasoned tech journalist with years of experience working for some of the industry’s leading media organizations, his articles can also be read on Live Mint. His passion extends beyond journalism—he’s a dedicated automobile enthusiast, always ready to explore the latest in car technology and design. A self-confessed gadget lover, Ayushmann finds joy in testing new devices and sharing his findings with his audience. Instagram: ayushmannchawla

Read moreRead less

According to a report by PTI, the Maharashtra government has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Starlink to deploy its satellite-based internet services across the state. The initiative aims to bring high-speed connectivity to government institutions, rural communities, and key public infrastructure.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the rollout will prioritise remote and underserved districts such as Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Washim, and Dharashiv, which have long struggled with poor digital access. In a post on X, the Chief Minister’s Office wrote, “With Starlink’s cutting-edge satellite technology, Maharashtra takes a bold leap forward in bridging the last digital divide, powering education, healthcare, and connectivity in every corner of our state.”

A milestone in digital inclusion

Starlink’s entry is expected to benefit students, small businesses, and local administrations in rural areas where traditional broadband networks remain limited. However, the rollout will depend on regulatory and compliance clearances from India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT).

What’s next for Starlink in India

Starlink recently conducted demo runs in Mumbai on October 30 and 31 to demonstrate compliance with Indian security and technical standards. The company also plans to set up nine gateway earth stations across major cities, including Mumbai, Noida, Chandigarh, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Lucknow.

Once approved, Starlink could deliver satellite broadband speeds of up to 600 Gbps through its Gen 1 constellation, potentially transforming connectivity in India’s most remote regions.