The Government of Maharashtra has officially taken a pioneering step by signing a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Starlink Satellite Communications, a subsidiary of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, on November 5. This landmark agreement marks Maharashtra as the first Indian state to collaborate with Starlink to bring satellite-based Internet connectivity to remote and underserved regions. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the initiative will play a key role in transforming Maharashtra’s digital landscape and bridging connectivity gaps across the state.

Maharashtra Becomes the First State to Collaborate with Starlink

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Chief Minister Fadnavis confirmed that Maharashtra has become the first state in India to sign an LoI with Starlink Satellite Communications Pvt. Ltd. The signing ceremony took place in Mumbai, attended by Lauren Dreyer, Vice President at Starlink. The move is a significant step towards enabling high-speed Internet connectivity in rural and isolated areas, leveraging Starlink’s advanced satellite network.

Once the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Government of India grant necessary regulatory approvals, Starlink will begin deploying its satellite Internet services across Maharashtra. The partnership emphasizes the state’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement as part of its broader digital strategy.

Focus on Enhancing Connectivity in Remote Districts

The partnership will prioritize areas that have remained beyond the reach of traditional fibre or mobile network infrastructure due to difficult terrain or sparse population. In the initial rollout phase, districts such as Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Dharashiv (Osmanabad), and Washim are expected to benefit.

These regions have historically faced connectivity challenges, limiting access to education, healthcare, and government services. Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite technology will offer high-speed broadband coverage, enabling government institutions, schools, and public offices to operate efficiently even in the most remote areas.

A Major Step in Maharashtra’s “Digital Maharashtra” Mission

This collaboration aligns with the state’s ambitious Digital Maharashtra initiative, which aims to ensure last-mile Internet access and promote digital inclusion. According to CM Fadnavis, reliable Internet connectivity is not only crucial for education and e-governance but also for strengthening electric mobility infrastructure, coastal development, and disaster management systems.

The Starlink project will complement other state-led initiatives that focus on digital empowerment, smart governance, and inclusive growth through technology.

Starlink’s Entry into India Gains Momentum

Starlink, a SpaceX subsidiary, operates the world’s largest constellation of communication satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO). As of October 2025, around 8,811 Starlink satellites were in orbit, with approximately 8,795 operational, according to data from Space.com. The company aims to provide global broadband connectivity, particularly in regions with limited Internet access.

Starlink has been seeking commercial clearances from Indian authorities since early 2025. Once it receives approval, India could see one of the most advanced satellite broadband services introduced to its telecom ecosystem, complementing existing mobile and fibre networks.

Supporting the National Digital Inclusion Agenda

The Maharashtra–Starlink partnership also aligns with the Government of India’s Digital India Mission, which promotes universal Internet access and improved digital infrastructure. By connecting remote communities, this initiative supports national objectives of inclusive growth and technological empowerment.

If implemented successfully, Maharashtra could serve as a model state for other regions in India aiming to reduce the digital divide and enhance connectivity in geographically challenging areas.

Conclusion

Maharashtra’s collaboration with Starlink marks a defining moment in India’s digital evolution. The initiative is set to redefine connectivity standards across rural and remote regions, supporting state and national missions for inclusive digital growth. With Starlink’s cutting-edge satellite technology, the dream of seamless Internet access in every corner of Maharashtra may soon become a reality—ushering in a new era of technological inclusion and development.

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