Maharashtra Becomes First State to Partner With Starlink
The Maharashtra government has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Starlink Satellite Communications Pvt Ltd, becoming the first Indian state to officially collaborate with the company for satellite-based internet services. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the partnership, stating that the initiative would help bridge the digital divide in areas with limited access to traditional broadband networks.
Focus on Remote and Underserved Regions
The project will primarily target rural and remote districts such as Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Dharashiv, and Washim, where conventional fibre connectivity is either unreliable or unavailable. Through Starlink’s satellite network, the state aims to provide high-speed internet to government institutions, schools, hospitals, and other essential services, improving digital access for residents in these areas.
Implementation and Regulatory Process
While the agreement marks a significant milestone, the rollout will depend on clearances from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and other regulatory bodies. The partnership will follow India’s spectrum and licensing frameworks before service deployment. Officials have confirmed that a pilot phase will be conducted to evaluate speed, coverage, and reliability before full-scale implementation.
Digital Push and National Implications
The collaboration aligns with Maharashtra’s digital transformation agenda and supports India’s broader vision of inclusive connectivity. The initiative could serve as a model for other states looking to expand broadband access through low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite technology. It also reflects growing state-level efforts to embrace emerging technologies for governance, education, and healthcare delivery.
