Starlink In India / How does Elon Musk's Starlink internet work, will it be cheaper than 5G? Know here

Elon Musk's satellite internet service Starlink may soon enter India. Jio and Airtel have announced a collaboration with SpaceX. Starlink is a satellite-based internet service that connects directly to satellite signals without towers or cables. Starlink's monthly plan is around ₹ 10,500, while 5G broadband starts at ₹ 599.

Starlink In India: India’s telecom giants, Jio and Airtel, have announced a potential collaboration with SpaceX for Starlink internet services. However, some necessary approvals from the Indian government are still pending. Once approved, this service will be ready to provide high-speed internet in both rural and urban areas.

How Does Satellite Internet Work?

Satellite internet is an advanced technology that does not require fiber cables or towers to provide connectivity. Instead, it receives signals directly from satellites, offering internet access without traditional infrastructure.

Compared to conventional internet services, satellite internet can offer better coverage in remote areas such as mountains, deserts, and far-off villages.

A ground station sends broadband signals to the satellite, which then transmits them directly to the user’s device.

According to reports, Starlink has the lowest latency (data transmission delay), making it a faster and more reliable internet option.

Is Starlink Internet Cheaper Than 5G?

Currently, Jio AirFiber and Airtel 5G Broadband offer affordable plans in India. For example:

Jio AirFiber: ₹599/month (40 Mbps speed)
Airtel 5G Broadband: ₹699/month (40 Mbps speed)

In comparison, Starlink’s cheapest plan starts at $120 (approx. ₹10,500/month), making it more expensive than 5G broadband. However, it can deliver internet in areas where traditional broadband is unavailable.

How Can Starlink Benefit India?

Remote Area Coverage: Internet access in remote villages and difficult terrains.
Low Latency: High-speed, low-delay internet, ideal for online gaming and video calls.
Fast Internet Speeds: Better speeds than other satellite-based internet services.
Emergency Communication: Reliable internet during natural disasters or crises.

Challenges for Starlink in India

High Cost: The monthly price may be too expensive for Indian consumers.
Approval Process: Government permissions may take time.
Competition: Jio and Airtel already offer affordable, high-speed internet services.

Conclusion

Starlink has the potential to revolutionize India's internet sector, especially in areas lacking traditional broadband connectivity. However, its high cost and regulatory approvals might slow its rollout. If successful, Starlink could strengthen India's Digital India mission by expanding high-speed internet access across the country.