Starlink would help the 'least served' in India: Elon Musk

Elon Musk on Friday said that Starlink’s satellite internet service would be particularly useful for the “least served” parts of India, especially rural areas, as the company looks to expand high-speed connectivity across the country.

Starlink’s entry into India is expected to expand internet access beyond major cities and established urban markets. The world's largest LEO satellite operator remains bullish on the Indian satellite communication market.

The company has been seeking to launch its satellite broadband services in India, where the government has been working on the regulatory framework for satellite spectrum allocation and services.


Also read: Elon Musk's Starlink reapplies for India approval of satellite network with direct-to-device tech

His comments came a day after ET reported that the multi-billionaire's business Starlink has renewed efforts to offer satellite communication services in India, resubmitting an application to the space regulator seeking approval for a Gen 2 constellation that delivers the latest technologies, including direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity.

Musk reshared a post on 'DogeDesigner' which highlighted India's rural demography and internet connectivity statistics, and said, "The government itself says the remaining mobile gaps are caused by difficult terrain, low commercial viability and infrastructure constraints. This is exactly where Starlink can help by reaching remote villages, mountains, islands and disaster-hit areas. Direct-to-device connectivity could also help phones stay connected beyond tower coverage."

"The Indian government should complete the remaining clearances, allocate spectrum and clear Starlink for commercial launch ASAP. India has already waited far too long," it added.

Starlink's new application to the Indian government came after the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) rejected an earlier request by the Elon Musk-owned company for the 30,000-satellite internet constellation a few years ago due to non-conformity of certain features and spectrum bands.

The US-based satcom company, operated by SpaceX, originally applied for Gen 1 and 2 constellations for starting services in the country.