Bringing high-speed internet to India’s remote corners, Starlink finally lands government approval. Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia calls it “transformative” for the country’s digital ambitions.
India has officially granted operating permission to Starlink, Elon Musk’s SpaceX-owned satellite internet service, paving the way for its entry into the Indian market. The announcement was confirmed by Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, who shared details of the government’s move on social media.
The licence enables Starlink to offer satellite internet services nationwide. According to various media reports, this development is expected to significantly impact India’s telecom landscape, especially in remote and underserved regions.
Scindia revealed on X that he held a “productive meeting” with Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX. “We delved into opportunities for collaboration in satellite communications to power Digital India’s soaring ambitions and empower every citizen across the country,” he stated.
Several Indian telecom giants, including Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, have already partnered with Starlink to extend internet coverage beyond traditional land-based networks.
Starlink is currently operational in over 100 countries worldwide. In India, it plans to launch two internet packages: a Residential Lite plan for users with basic data needs and a Full Residential plan offering higher bandwidth for heavier usage.
The initial Starlink Standard Kit in India is priced at around ₹33,000. This kit includes the satellite dish, a third-generation router, a power adapter, and cables. Monthly charges for unlimited data are expected to range between ₹3000 and ₹4200.
Starlink promises internet speeds ranging from 25 Mbps to 220 Mbps, often exceeding 100 Mbps. Its low Earth orbit satellite network offers reduced latency and reliable service, making it suited for rural and difficult-to-reach areas.
