Starlink Set to Launch in India: What It Costs and Why It Could Bridge the Digital Divide

Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, Starlink, has received the green light to begin operations in India. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a Letter of Intent (LoI) after the company pledged to meet India’s updated licensing and national security requirements.

Already serving over 100 countries worldwide, Starlink aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet to both urban and rural areas. The entry into the Indian market marks a major step toward bridging the country’s long-standing digital divide, especially in remote locations.

What is Starlink?

Developed by SpaceX, Starlink uses a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to deliver broadband internet directly to users. Unlike traditional satellite systems that orbit much higher, Starlink’s closer proximity to Earth offers significantly lower latency and more stable performance. This is particularly beneficial in areas where fiber-optic lines or mobile networks are unreliable or completely absent.

How Much Will Starlink Cost in India?

Early reports suggest that Starlink plans in India could range between ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 per month, based on plan type and regional availability. This does not include the one-time cost of Starlink’s hardware kit—which comprises a satellite dish and router. In global markets, the standard kit is priced at around ₹30,000, while the more portable Starlink Mini version costs roughly ₹43,000. Similar pricing is anticipated for Indian users.

Why Starlink Could Be a Game-Changer

India’s rural and geographically challenging regions often lack reliable internet infrastructure. Starlink’s satellite-driven model could offer a transformative solution by delivering consistent internet access to remote villages, hilly terrains, and other underserved zones. This could uplift sectors like online education, remote healthcare, e-commerce, and digital banking.

Experts estimate that capturing even 1% of India’s broadband market could earn Starlink nearly $1 billion annually, highlighting its immense business potential in the country. Additionally, its rollout aligns with the Indian government’s goals under the “Digital India” mission, potentially accelerating national digital inclusion.

As the launch draws closer, all eyes will be on how Starlink reshapes connectivity across the nation.