ICTpost News Network
In a landmark step toward inclusive and future-ready digital transformation, the Government of Maharashtra today signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited, making Maharashtra the first Indian state to formally collaborate with Starlink for deploying advanced satellite-based internet services across government institutions, rural communities, and critical public infrastructure. The initiative is subject to Starlink obtaining all necessary regulatory and compliance clearances from the Government of India.
The LOI was signed by Lauren Dreyer, Vice President, Starlink, and Shri Virendra Singh, IAS, Secretary, Department of Information Technology, Government of Maharashtra, in the presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
This strategic partnership aims to bring high-speed satellite connectivity to remote and underserved regions including tribal schools, primary health centres, disaster control rooms, forest and wildlife outposts, coastal belts, islands, and aspirational districts such as Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Dharashiv, and Washim.
It will also power digital infrastructure along major corridors such as Samruddhi Mahamarg, coastal ferries and ports, and support coastal policing, telemedicine, education, and emergency communication systems.
Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra said, “With Starlink joining hands with Maharashtra, we are bridging the last digital divide—connecting every village, every school, and every health centre, no matter how remote. This partnership reflects our commitment to build a truly connected, future-ready Maharashtra. We are proud to be India’s first state to launch this collaboration and set the benchmark for Digital India at the grassroots.”
Lauren Dreyer, Vice President, Starlink: “We pride ourselves in providing high-speed connectivity wherever people are, regardless of terrain or background. We are therefore honored to collaborate with the Government of Maharashtra in this first-of-its-kind initiative. Starlink’s mission, which is complementary to other government initiatives and providers, is to connect those who have been left behind by traditional infrastructure. Maharashtra’s vision for inclusive and resilient digital growth perfectly aligns with ours. Together, we aim to demonstrate how satellite internet can empower schools, healthcare facilities, and communities across the most remote corners of India.”
Bhagwan Patil, Chief Operating Officer (COO), MahaIT said:
“This collaboration is not merely about technology deployment—it is about equity, opportunity, and dignity through connectivity. Reliable high-speed internet can transform how children learn, how doctors treat patients, how farmers access markets, and how governments respond in times of crisis.
Pilot Phase Focus Areas
- Satellite connectivity for government schools, tribal residential schools, Aaple Sarkar Seva Kendras, and Primary Health Centres
- Enhanced disaster response, coastal surveillance, and real-time communication networks
- Smart education & telemedicine delivery in remote districts
- Capacity building and digital readiness training for state departments and local communities
Once successfully demonstrated during the pilot phase, the initiative will be scaled across the state, positioning Maharashtra as a national and global leader in satellite-enabled digital public infrastructure.
