Indian billionaires sign deal with Elon Musk's Starlink.
Indian billionaires Mukesh Ambani and Sunil Mittal have both signed deals with Elon Musk's Starlink to bring satellite internet services to India, a significant step to expand internet connectivity to remote areas of the country. These deals were announced on consecutive days, with Bharti Airtel announcing it on March 11, 2025, and then Reliance Jio on March 12, 2025. Both agreements are contingent on SpaceX getting the necessary government approvals to operate in India.
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Bharti Airtel and Starlink Partnership
Bharti Airtel, India's second-largest telecom company, signed a deal with Starlink to provide the US satellite internet giant's services to Indian customers. The partnership aims to enhance broadband connectivity, especially in remote and under-served areas of India. Gopal Vittal, Managing Director and Vice President, Bharti Airtel, said, "This collaboration enhances our ability to bring world-class high-speed broadband to even the most remote areas of India, ensuring that every individual, business and community has access to reliable internet." Reliance Jio and Starlink partnership announcement date: March 12, 2025 Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Jio, India's leading telecom operator, also signed a deal with SpaceX to bring Starlink satellite internet services to the country. The unexpected move comes after months of tension between the two billionaires over spectrum allocation. The deal includes plans by Reliance Jio to stock Starlink equipment in its retail stores, which will provide a direct distribution channel for Starlink to thousands of outlets across the country. Both deals are subject to Starlink getting the necessary government approvals to begin operations in India. Context and implications Both Starlink and the deal between Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio highlight the growing competition in India's broadband market. The meetings facilitated recent developments, as both Indian telecom giants are now committed to bringing Starlink to the country.
Carlos Slim's competitive shift
While Indian billionaires are joining Starlink, Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim has taken a different approach. Slim has ended his partnership with Starlink and is investing $22 billion in independent infrastructure development through his company America Movil. The move signals a competitive shift in the Latin American market, where Slim aims to promote his telecom services independently of Musk's satellite internet project.
Government approval and future outlook
The success of these partnerships depends on whether SpaceX gets the necessary government approval to operate in India. If approved, these deals could significantly expand internet connectivity in remote areas, boosting digital inclusion and economic growth. The Indian government's stance on these agreements will be crucial in determining the future of satellite internet services in the country.
Conclusion
The deals between Starlink and Bharti Airtel as well as Reliance Jio are a significant step towards expanding high-speed internet access in India. If approved, these partnerships could transform the country's broadband landscape, ensuring that even the most remote areas have reliable internet connectivity. The competitive dynamics in the global telecom market, as evidenced by Carlos Slim's independent investment, further underscore the strategic importance of satellite internet services in driving digital transformation.