Shillong, April 1: The state government signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited (Starlink India) on April 1 to boost internet connectivity via satellite.
The agreement was signed with the Meghalaya Information Technology & Communications Department.
The LoI signifies the mutual intent of the parties for collaboration in supporting the state government’s digital & telecom connectivity and related strategic initiatives.
Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited is the Indian unit of the Starlink satellite internet constellation.
The constellation is owned by Elon Musk’s aerospace company, SpaceX.
Earlier, the company had signed agreements with Maharashtra and Gujarat governments for high speed internet.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said the Centre is also roped in to ensure the initiative becomes a reality.
Hecsaid over the past 8 years, the government had strengthened infrastructure, embraced technology, and improved governance, reducing processes that once took 30 days to just 3 days.
“Yet, connecting our remotest schools, health centres, and communities remains a challenge. Our partnership to introduce advanced satellite connectivity technology marks an important step toward bridging this gap. This initiative will help save lives through better healthcare access, improve learning opportunities for students, and enhance livelihoods for farmers and rural communities. We are also committed to transforming Shillong into a hub for IT and technology in the Northeast, creating opportunities for our talented youth and building a strong digital ecosystem for the future. Meghalaya has seen credible transformation through technology and we are hopeful that this collaboration will help us reach the remotest corners of our state and make a real difference in people’s lives.
The chief minister also thanked Gwynne Shotwell, President & COO SpaceX and Lauren Dreyer, Vice President, Starlink Operations for their presence in New Delhi for the landmark MoU signing.
