Maharashtra has taken a major step toward expanding digital connectivity by becoming the first state in India to formally partner with Starlink for satellite based internet services. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who described Starlink as one of the largest companies in the information and communication technology sector with the biggest network of communication satellites in the world.
The partnership was formalised through a letter of intent signed by Lauren Dreyer, Vice President at Starlink, and Virendra Singh, Secretary of the Department of Information Technology for the Maharashtra government. The signing took place in the presence of the Chief Minister. He shared the news on X and called it a significant development for the state.
The collaboration aims to bring high speed satellite internet to government institutions, rural areas and essential public infrastructure across remote and underserved regions, including Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Washim and Dharashiv. The Chief Minister said it is an honour for the state to host Starlink and highlighted the company’s important role in the global satellite communication sector.
This initiative will support Maharashtra’s Digital Maharashtra mission and align with other state programmes related to electric vehicles, coastal development and disaster resilience. Dreyer said that Starlink’s goal has always been to provide connectivity to people who have been left behind by traditional infrastructure. She added that the company is proud to collaborate with Maharashtra in this first of its kind effort and that the partnership will help empower schools, healthcare services and local communities in remote locations.
Fadnavis said the partnership will help bridge the last digital gap and ensure that every village, school and health centre gains access to reliable internet. He called the step a major milestone in building a connected and future ready state and said that Maharashtra is proud to lead the country in satellite enabled digital development.
The Department of Telecommunications granted Starlink a GMPCS licence in June after the company completed all required security clearances. Starlink became the third satellite communication provider in India with this licence, following OneWeb and Reliance Jio. The approval was confirmed earlier by the communications minister, who noted that Starlink had met the conditions set by the government. The company’s discussions with national leadership earlier this year focused on its service rollout and India’s expectations regarding security compliance.
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