India’s Maharashtra state, which includes the major financial city Mumbai, is set to become the first region in the country to officially launch Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, confirming a major step in expanding high-speed satellite internet access across India.
High-Speed Satellite Internet for Remote Areas
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, offers fast internet through a network of low-orbit satellites, making it ideal for rural and remote regions where traditional broadband services are weak or unavailable. This service is expected to help bridge India’s digital divide, especially in interior and tribal areas of Maharashtra.
Government Approval and Growing Demand
India, which is projected to have over 900 million internet users by the end of the year, granted Starlink its operational licence in June 2025. The move comes amid strong discussions in the telecom sector regarding pricing policies, spectrum allocation, and fair competition with existing service providers.
A Strategic Digital Partnership
Fadnavis highlighted that Maharashtra is ready to formally collaborate with Starlink, marking a major milestone in the country’s digital growth. The rollout is seen as a big push toward improving connectivity, boosting business opportunities, and supporting digital education and tele-medicine services across the state.
