Key Facts:
Reliance Jio is an Indian telecommunications company and a subsidiary of Jio Platforms, headquartered in Navi Mumbai.
It operates a national LTE network with coverage across all 22 telecom circles.
Prime Highlights:
Jio has signed a deal with SpaceX to bring Starlink satellite internet services to India, a day after rival Airtel did the same.
The partnership aims to provide reliable broadband across India, especially in remote and rural areas, leveraging Jio’s extensive reach and Starlink’s satellite technology.
Key Background:
Jio Platforms Limited, led by Mukesh Ambani, has announced a partnership with SpaceX to introduce Starlink internet services in India, a move that comes just one day after rival Bharti Airtel struck a similar deal with the satellite company. The collaboration will allow Jio to offer Starlink’s satellite internet solutions across India, including its most remote and rural areas, leveraging Jio’s widespread presence as the world’s largest mobile operator by data traffic and SpaceX’s expertise in low Earth orbit satellite technology.
The agreement, however, is contingent on SpaceX receiving the necessary authorizations from the Indian government to sell Starlink services in the country. Once granted, Jio will offer Starlink equipment through its retail outlets and online platforms, while also setting up mechanisms to assist with customer service, installation, and activation. This partnership is part of Jio’s broader commitment to providing reliable broadband connectivity to enterprises, small businesses, and communities across India.
Mathew Oommen, the Group CEO of Reliance Jio, emphasized that this collaboration marks a transformative step in expanding broadband access and enhancing its ecosystem, especially in the era of artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX, expressed confidence in the partnership, highlighting the shared goal of improving connectivity in India.
Both companies are also exploring further opportunities to integrate their infrastructures and support the country’s digital ecosystem. The move comes at a time when Airtel and SpaceX are also working together to bring Starlink’s services to India, indicating a growing competition in the satellite broadband space.
