Gujarat partners with Elon Musk's Starlink to pilot satellite internet in remote, tribal areas

On February 9, the Gujarat government entered into a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Starlink, the satellite internet division of Elon Musk's SpaceX, to launch a pilot program aimed at providing satellite-based internet to the state's most remote and underserved areas. The signing took place in Gandhinagar with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi in attendance, following discussions with Starlink Operations Vice President Lauren Dreyer in December 2025. The initiative aims to deliver high-speed satellite internet to a variety of public facilities, including Common Service Centres (CSCs), e-Governance hubs, government schools, primary health centres (PHCs), and disaster management control rooms. “This endeavor marks a significant step towards enhancing the state’s digital services and will greatly boost the efficiency of e-Governance,” stated Chief Minister Patel. Particular emphasis will be placed on improving digital connectivity in tribal areas, including Aspirational Districts like Narmada and Dahod. The program also aims to bolster communication for police outposts, disaster management centres, wildlife monitoring systems, and agricultural research facilities. Additionally, the rollout will extend smart connectivity to government schools and telemedicine centres, facilitating quicker access to education and healthcare. To ensure effective implementation, a Joint Working Group will be established, comprising representatives from both the Gujarat government and Starlink. This group will oversee the development of a robust digital infrastructure across the state. The agreement also includes plans to improve connectivity in GIDC industrial parks, enhance safety systems on highways, and support maritime and port operations, along with coastal police units.