After years of waiting, SpaceX’s Starlink is finally set to launch its satellite broadband services in India. With regulatory approval from IN-SPACe and pending spectrum clearances in the final stages, commercial rollout is expected by late 2025 or early 2026. Starlink will operate using Ka and Ku-band frequencies under its Gen1 satellite license valid till 2030.
This is a crucial development for India’s rural and remote areas, where internet access is patchy or entirely absent. Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellites can beam internet directly to rooftops, bypassing the need for ground-level fibre infrastructure.
What Will Starlink Offer in India Initially?
In its first phase, Starlink will offer:
- Download speeds: 25 Mbps to 220 Mbps
- Total data capacity (India): 600–700 Gbps
- Expected cost:
- Hardware kit: ~₹33,000
- Monthly plans: ₹3,000 to ₹4,200
These figures may sound modest next to fibre plans in cities, but they’re game-changing for rural schools, health centers, and small businesses that currently rely on weak mobile signals or no internet at all.
Next-Gen Satellites: A Game Changer
Starting in 2026, Starlink will begin deploying its next-generation satellites, offering:
- Downlink per satellite: >1,000 Gbps (1 Tbps)
- Uplink per satellite: >200 Gbps
- Each launch adds: ~60 Tbps to the network
These satellites will use advanced beamforming, lower orbits for reduced latency, and powerful onboard computers, pushing performance levels 10X above current offerings. This will help Starlink handle high-demand users and offer near-fibre speeds even in remote locations.
Partnerships to Enhance Reach
Starlink is reportedly exploring partnerships with Indian telecom giants like Jio and Airtel. Such tie-ups could fast-track installations, offer bundled services, or create hybrid connectivity models, especially useful in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities and rural belts.
Conclusion: Lifeline for BharatNet Gaps
Starlink’s India debut couldn’t be timelier. As the country pushes for 100% digital coverage, satellite broadband can plug infrastructure gaps in remote hills, deserts, and islands. With its upcoming 10X boost in capacity, Starlink is poised to revolutionize digital inclusion in India—from the Himalayas to the Andamans.
