Goa inks MoU with Starlink to explore satellite internet for smart governance, disaster response
In a move aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure and connectivity across the state, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), Government of Goa, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited on Tuesday.
Goa CM Pramod Sawant signs MoU with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited
In a move aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure and connectivity across the state, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), Government of Goa, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited on Tuesday.
The partnership aims to explore advanced connectivity solutions to support digital inclusion, public infrastructure, coastal security and emergency response capabilities across Goa. The MoU was signed by Prime Minister Dr. Signed in the presence of Pramod Sawant; Minister of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications Rohan Khaunte, Principal Secretary Dr V Candavelou, IAS; Director, DITE&C Kabir Shirgaonkar, OSD to Minister Neville Noronha and other senior officials.
Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited was represented by Prabhakar Jayakumar, President of Starlink India. Speaking on this occasion, Prime Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said: “The Government of Goa is committed to leveraging technology to drive digital transformation and improve the lives of our citizens. This partnership with Starlink is an important step towards achieving our vision of a digitally empowered Goa.”
ITE&C Minister Rohan Khaunte said: “This partnership with Starlink will transform Goa’s governance landscape, leveraging modern technology to increase efficiency and responsiveness. By closing the digital divide and improving public services, we will enable our citizens to reap the benefits of digital progress, while making Goa an even more attractive hub for investment, tourism and talent.”
Under the MoU, DITE&C and Starlink will explore collaboration in key areas such as digital connectivity, disaster resilience and smart governance. Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited, SpaceX’s Indian affiliate for Starlink satellite internet services, has expressed interest in piloting connectivity solutions, including satellite broadband services, in regions with limited terrestrial networks.
These initiatives may include providing connectivity to certain public schools, healthcare facilities, and disaster management centers. The partnership also aims to improve emergency preparedness, build capacity through training, and explore affordable tariff structures for socially beneficial use cases.
Additionally, the collaboration will support smart management, tourism and coastal development by enabling connectivity solutions for public infrastructure and services. Officials said that through the MoU, the Government of Goa reiterates its commitment to digital transformation by leveraging technology to foster innovation, economic growth and well-being of citizens while creating a resilient digital ecosystem for a sustainable future.
