Elon Musk pitches Starlink to bridge India's rural digital divide

Elon Musk has stated that Starlink’s satellite internet service could significantly benefit India’s least-served and rural areas. His comments follow reports that SpaceX is seeking regulatory approval for its Gen 2 satellite network, which includes direct-to-device connectivity. The push for satellite internet comes as data indicates a persistent digital divide in India; as of May 2026, over 11,000 villages lacked 4G coverage, and rural internet subscription density remained notably lower than urban levels.

While Starlink aims to bridge gaps in remote, mountainous, or disaster-prone regions where traditional fiber and mobile towers are difficult to deploy, the pitch has met with mixed reactions. Some social media users have raised concerns regarding national security and questioned the necessity of satellite services given the rapid expansion of existing 4G and 5G networks.

Separately, German company Krones has expanded its industrial footprint in India with the opening of a new production plant in Vemagal, near Bangalore. The facility is intended to support the growing beverage, food, and packaging markets in the region.