Washington: In a major development that could reshape India’s digital future, tech billionaire Elon Musk has announced the launch of Starlink, his satellite-based internet service, in India. This move is expected to be a game-changer, especially for rural and remote regions struggling with low internet connectivity.
The announcement follows Musk’s recent exit from his official position under U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, where he served as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). While stepping down from his role, Musk confirmed that he would remain a close friend and advisor to President Trump.
Affordable High-Speed Internet for Rural India
Starlink’s India rollout aims to provide affordable high-speed internet access to underserved communities. The monthly subscription for Indian users is expected to start at ₹850 ($10)—a fraction of the U.S. pricing, which stands at around $80 per month.
At launch, the service will offer a total bandwidth of 600–700 Gbps, with plans to scale it up to 3 Tbps by 2027. Customers will need to purchase Starlink hardware kits, priced at approximately ₹29,700, while premium models could cost up to ₹50,000.
Musk’s company is reportedly partnering with leading Indian telecom providers such as Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone, enabling both direct-to-consumer and B2B service models.
India Visit on the Cards
Following a recent conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Musk has also announced plans to visit India later this year. The visit will focus on enhancing India–U.S. technological collaboration, particularly in areas of innovation, internet infrastructure, and emerging technologies.
Regulatory and Market Challenges Ahead
While the potential impact of Starlink in India is significant, the road ahead isn’t without hurdles. Regulatory approvals, spectrum licensing, and hardware affordability for average Indian households are among the key challenges Musk’s team will need to navigate.
Still, the move has generated widespread excitement. Experts say Starlink could revolutionize digital access in India, bridging the digital divide in areas where traditional broadband services are still non-existent or unreliable.
A New Digital Dawn
Musk’s Starlink initiative signals a new chapter in India’s internet journey, offering hope for millions living beyond the reach of current internet networks. If executed effectively, the project could boost digital literacy, e-commerce, remote education, telemedicine, and overall rural empowerment.
As India inches closer to becoming a global digital powerhouse, Elon Musk’s satellite-powered venture might just be the catalyst that connects the last mile.
