Till recently these Indian telecom biggies were opposing the entry into the country of this giant satellite internet services provider, citing level playing field concerns. However, in a dramatic turn of events, the two biggest telecom players Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio have separately announced inking agreements with world’s richest man Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer Starlink’s satellite internet services and better connectivity to their customers in India.
Though the deal marks a significant step towards expanding high-speed broadband coverage in the country, particularly in remote and underserved areas, it will be subject to Starlink getting regulatory approvals from the Government of India before entering the Indian telecom market.
If that happens, Jio and Airtel will offer Starlink services and equipment through their stores and online platforms.
The development comes in the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the US after the inauguration of Donald Trump as President and his meeting with Elon Musk on the sidelines.
Bharti Airtel managing director and vice chairman Gopal Vittal described the collaboration with SpaceX as a major milestone in Airtel’s efforts to provide next-generation satellite connectivity in India.
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Mathew Oommen, Group CEO of Reliance Jio, emphasised the importance of high-speed broadband reaching every Indian, stating that integrating Starlink into Jio’s broadband ecosystem would enhance connectivity nationwide.
Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX’s president and COO, while appreciating both Airtel and Jio for their focus on digital expansion, reaffirmed SpaceX’s commitment to bringing Starlink’s high-speed internet to India once regulatory approvals are granted.
