Maharashtra has become the first Indian state to sign a partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink to deploy satellite-based internet services across remote and underserved regions.
Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday announced on X that the state government has signed a letter of intent with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited, the Indian arm of the US-based company.
“It was wonderful to welcome Lauren Dreyer, vice president of Starlink, in Mumbai today,” Fadnavis said. “With this agreement, Maharashtra will lead India in satellite-enabled digital infrastructure.”
The partnership aims to provide high-speed satellite internet connectivity to government institutions, rural communities and critical public infrastructure in districts such as Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Dharashiv and Washim—regions often challenged by limited internet access.
The partnership is subject to regulatory and compliance approvals from the Department of Telecommunications, Government of India.
Starlink, part of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, operates the world’s largest constellation of communication satellites. This collaboration marks Starlink’s formal entry into India through a state-level partnership.
According to Fadnavis, the Maharashtra-Starlink project aligns with the state’s Digital Maharashtra mission and will support initiatives in electric mobility, coastal development and disaster resilience.
“The company’s arrival in India and partnership with Maharashtra is an important step in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s Digital India vision at the grassroots,” Fadnavis said.
The initiative is expected to improve digital inclusion, particularly in areas with limited fiber or mobile connectivity, setting a model for other Indian states exploring satellite-based broadband solutions.
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