**Starlink Limited to 2 Million Connections in India, Says Minister**
Union Minister Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani has announced that Elon Musk’s satellite communications company, Starlink, will be limited to 2 million connections in India. This decision comes amid concerns regarding competition with state-owned BSNL and other telecom operators. The Minister of State for Rural Development and Telecommunications stated that Starlink will offer internet speeds of up to 200 Mbps, which the government believes will not disrupt existing telecom services.
During a BSNL review meeting, Pemmasani emphasized, “Starlink can have only 20 lakh customers in India and offer up to 200 Mbps speed. That won’t affect telecom services.” The satellite internet service is expected to primarily target rural and remote areas, a significant market for BSNL.
Pemmasani also highlighted that the initial costs for Starlink’s service would be high, with monthly fees estimated around ₹3,000. He confirmed that BSNL has completed its 4G network rollout and has no plans to increase network tariffs at this time, stating, “We want market first. There are no tariff hikes planned.”
Starlink, the world’s first and largest satellite internet provider, utilizes low Earth orbit technology to deliver broadband internet. This service aims to enhance connectivity in underserved regions of India, thereby contributing to the growth of the domestic telecom industry. The company has received authorization from the Indian National Space Promotion & Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) for its Gen 1 constellation capacity over India, valid until July 7, 2030.
In conclusion, while Starlink’s entry into the Indian market is poised to improve internet access in rural areas, its limited customer base and high costs may restrict its impact on the broader telecom landscape.
**FAQ**
**What is Starlink’s customer limit in India?**
Starlink is limited to 2 million connections in India, as stated by Union Minister Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani.