Kathmandu: Starlink, the satellite-based internet service owned by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, has officially launched in India, marking a significant step in the country’s digital expansion. Maharashtra, home to India’s financial capital Mumbai, will be the first state to operate the service, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Wednesday.

Aiming to Connect Remote Areas

Starlink’s mission is to provide high-speed internet access to remote and hard-to-reach regions through its low-Earth orbit satellite network. India’s government granted Starlink an operational license in June, paving the way for its entry into one of the world’s fastest-growing internet markets — with over 900 million users expected by the end of this year.

Maharashtra Partners with Starlink

Chief Minister Fadnavis shared on Musk’s social media platform X that Maharashtra would be the first Indian state to collaborate with Starlink.
“This collaboration will make India a leader in satellite-enabled digital infrastructure,” he said, adding that the partnership aligns with India’s vision of digital inclusivity and innovation.

Starlink Pledges to Support India’s Digital Vision

Starlink’s Vice President of Business Operations, Lauren Dreyer, said she was “extremely excited” to support India’s digital transformation. She pledged to connect schools, healthcare facilities, and public services in the country’s most remote regions once final regulatory approvals are complete.

Market Impact and Growing Competition

Starlink’s launch has sparked debate in India over pricing, spectrum allocation, and market regulation, as competition intensifies among major telecom players. Local giants Jio Platforms and Bharti Airtel have already announced plans to collaborate with SpaceX to expand satellite internet services.

Meanwhile, global tech firms continue to strengthen their presence in India — the world’s fifth-largest economy. In October, Google announced a $15 billion investment to establish the country’s largest AI hub and data center, while Anthropic and OpenAI prepare to open offices in India.

A New Chapter in India’s Digital Transformation

With Starlink’s entry, India is poised to open a new chapter in digital connectivity, bringing reliable internet access to millions of citizens in rural and underserved regions — a move expected to reshape education, healthcare, and governance through technology.