Dialogue Between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. Tech Entrepreneur Elon Musk – Satellite Internet Services to Launch in India

Dialogue Between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. Tech Entrepreneur Elon Musk – Satellite Internet Services to Launch in India
New Delhi, April 18, 2025

On Friday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a significant phone conversation with American tech entrepreneur and billionaire Elon Musk, where they discussed the “limitless possibilities” for collaboration in the fields of technology and innovation. Musk’s satellite internet service, Starlink, is set to begin operations soon in the South Asian country.

On his X account (formerly Twitter), Modi wrote:
“I had a great conversation with Elon Musk on various topics, including several matters we had previously discussed during our meeting earlier this year in Washington, D.C. India is committed to strengthening its partnership with the United States in this domain.”

Elon Musk is currently the owner of social media platform X, electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla, and satellite internet provider Starlink. He is also a central figure of controversy in the U.S. and Europe due to his outspoken support for international right-wing political ideologies, and he is one of the top donors to U.S. President Donald Trump’s campaign.

Notably, Musk shares strong relationships with both Trump and Modi.

Starlink’s Investment Plans

Ahead of Friday’s conversation, India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held a meeting this week with representatives from Starlink. On X, he wrote:
“The discussion focused on Starlink’s advanced technologies, existing partnerships, and future investment plans in India.”

In March, India’s two major telecom companies signed an agreement with SpaceX, paving the way for Starlink internet services to enter the Indian market. However, the service still requires regulatory approval from Indian authorities before it can officially launch.

In February this year, during a visit to the United States, Modi and Musk had a face-to-face meeting. Following the meeting, Modi described it as “constructive,” noting that they had discussed various areas including space, transportation, technology, and innovation.

Starlink’s arrival is being seen as particularly significant in India’s push to expand digital connectivity—especially to deliver internet access in remote and hard-to-reach regions.