Piyush Goyal Meets Elon Musk's Starlink Executives To Discuss Investment Plans In India
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal held discussions on Wednesday with senior executives from Starlink, the satellite internet arm of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, to explore the company’s potential investments and technological deployment in India.
The delegation from Starlink included Vice President Chad Gibbs and Senior Director Ryan Goodnight. Goyal shared details of the meeting on the social media platform X, “Met a delegation from Starlink, comprising Vice President Chad Gibbs & Senior Director, Ryan Goodnight. Discussions covered Starlink's cutting-edge technology platform, their existing partnerships & future investment plans in India,” he wrote.
The meeting comes at a time when Indian telecom giants are actively engaging with global satellite internet providers. Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea are reportedly in discussions with Starlink to collaborate on launching satellite-based telecom services in the country.
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Satellite Internet Push
The push for satellite internet aligns with the government’s broader digital inclusion goals. Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has emphasized the importance of satellite communications in bridging connectivity gaps, particularly in rural and remote regions where traditional infrastructure such as fiber and mobile networks cannot easily reach. He reiterated that satellite internet is intended to complement, not compete with, existing terrestrial and fiber networks.
Scindia also pointed out the critical role satellite services can play during emergencies and natural disasters, where traditional telecom infrastructure may be compromised. Satellite-based connectivity can ensure continuity of communication during such events.
While Starlink has shown keen interest in the Indian market, it has yet to receive regulatory clearance to begin operations. The company is currently awaiting clarity on the government’s upcoming policy regarding spectrum allocation and pricing.
Minister Scindia has affirmed that all interested firms are welcome to apply for a license, provided they comply with India’s regulatory framework.
Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, aims to provide high-speed internet globally through its constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites. SpaceX, founded by Elon Musk, is known for its pioneering achievements in space technology, including launching astronauts to the International Space Station and completing the world’s first all-civilian mission to orbit.
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