Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Jan 22: In a move aimed at strengthening digital connectivity, Goa’s IT department has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Starlink Satellite Communications Pvt Ltd to assess the viability of deploying high-speed satellite internet services across the state.
The agreement, signed in the presence of chief minister Pramod Sawant and IT minister Rohan Khaunte, focuses on exploring next-generation connectivity solutions to promote digital inclusion, strengthen public infrastructure, enhance coastal surveillance, and improve emergency response systems. Starlink’s India head, Prabhakar Jayakumar, represented the company at the signing.
IT minister Rohan Khaunte said the collaboration has the potential to significantly modernise governance in Goa. He noted that advanced connectivity could help bridge the digital divide, improve public service delivery, and position the state as an attractive destination for investment, tourism, and skilled professionals.
Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, has already begun preparatory work for its India foray and is in advanced discussions with data centre operators and several states. Parallel talks are also underway with the central government on key issues such as spectrum allocation and pricing, data protection, and national security concerns.
Under the MoU, the state and Starlink will jointly study the feasibility of using satellite internet for digital connectivity, disaster resilience, and smart governance initiatives in Goa. The company has expressed interest in launching a pilot project, particularly in rural and remote areas where high-speed 5G connectivity is currently unavailable.
Khaunte clarified that the MoU is limited to a feasibility assessment and does not guarantee implementation. “If the service proves to be unaffordable or impractical, we will not move ahead,” he said.
The study will also examine the possibility of providing satellite internet access to government schools, healthcare institutions, disaster management centres, panchayats, and government offices in interior regions, where laying optical fibre networks is costly and challenging.
Chief minister Pramod Sawant said the state is keen to leverage technology to drive digital transformation, improve emergency preparedness, and build institutional capacity through training. He added that the government will also explore affordable tariff models to ensure that residents in Goa’s hinterland benefit from improved connectivity.