Starlink Set for India Launch as Jio, Airtel Sign Separate Deals with SpaceX

Shruti Kothari | Jaipur | India is set to witness a major shift in broadband connectivity as Starlink, the satellite internet service by SpaceX, moves closer to launching in the country. To facilitate its rollout, Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have signed separate, non-exclusive agreements with SpaceX, allowing them to integrate Starlink’s satellite broadband with their existing telecom infrastructure. While the service promises high-speed, low-latency internet, its launch still hinges on regulatory approvals from the Indian government. If cleared, Starlink could become a game-changer for rural and remote connectivity, offering an alternative to fiber and mobile broadband.

What to Expect from Starlink in India
1. Bridging the Connectivity Gap
Starlink’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites can provide internet access to villages, remote towns, and hilly regions, where traditional broadband is limited. This could significantly boost education, healthcare, and digital businesses.
2. Faster and More Reliable Internet
Unlike conventional satellite broadband, Starlink’s LEO satellites operate closer to Earth, reducing latency and providing download speeds of up to 150 Mbps. This makes it a strong competitor to fiber broadband in underserved regions.
3. Strategic Deals with Jio and Airtel
Both Jio and Airtel have signed separate, non-exclusive agreements with SpaceX, meaning Starlink’s satellite broadband will be integrated into their networks. These partnerships could help expand Starlink’s reach in India, leveraging the infrastructure of two of the country’s largest telecom providers.
4. Pricing and Market Viability
In other countries, Starlink requires customers to buy a satellite dish and router along with a monthly subscription fee. The pricing strategy for India remains unclear but will be key in determining Starlink’s adoption.
5. Awaiting Regulatory Clearance
Despite progress, Starlink’s launch in India is still subject to approval from telecom regulators. Issues such as spectrum allocation and security compliance need to be addressed before commercial services can begin.
The Road Ahead
If approved, Starlink’s arrival could reshape India’s internet landscape, particularly in areas where broadband services are currently lacking. However, pricing, regulatory approvals, and competition with existing providers will determine its success. With Jio and Airtel onboard, Starlink’s entry into India is set to be a closely watched development in the telecom industry.