Gandhinagar: Gujarat on Monday formalised plans to expand satellite-based internet connectivity in its most remote regions, exchanging a letter of intent (LoI) with Elon Musk’s Starlink for cooperation in delivering high-speed broadband to border, tribal and underserved areas.The LoI was signed with Satellite Communications Private Limited, a subsidiary of SpaceX, at an event in Gandhinagar. State industries commissioner P Swaroop and Starlink India head Prabhakar Jayakumar exchanged the document in the presence of chief minister Bhupendra Patel and DyCM Harsh Sanghavi, according to an official statement.The state govt said the collaboration aims to bridge connectivity gaps in areas where terrestrial telecom infrastructure remains limited. The proposed partnership forms part of Gujarat’s Digital Connectivity Mission and other strategic initiatives to strengthen digital access across sectors.The LoI also covers connectivity support for GIDC industrial parks, highway safety systems, maritime and port operations, and coastal police networks. A joint working group comprising representatives of the Gujarat govt and Starlink will be constituted to steer implementation and monitor progress.“As part of a pilot project under the LoI, the state plans to connect common service centres (CSCs), e-governance facilities, govt schools, district disaster management control rooms, ports and wildlife sanctuary areas. The initiative is also aimed at boosting digital inclusion in tribal belts, including aspirational districts such as Narmada and Dahod,” the statement said.“With strong connectivity for police outposts, disaster management centres, wildlife monitoring, and agricultural research centres, the implementation of this LoI will enhance security and stability while ensuring reliable digital service delivery,” the govt said.The plan also envisages smart connectivity in state-run schools and improved access to healthcare and telemedicine services at primary health centres (PHCs). In addition, joint training programmes are proposed for capacity building of govt departments, agencies, schools and disaster response teams.
