Panaji, Jan 22: In a significant step towards strengthening digital infrastructure and connectivity across the state, the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), Government of Goa, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited. The partnership aims to explore advanced connectivity solutions to support digital inclusion, public infrastructure, coastal safety and emergency response capabilities across the state.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Dr Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Dr V. Candavelou, IAS, Chief Secretary, along with Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director, DITE&C; Shri Neville Noronha, OSD to the Minister and other senior officials. Shri Prabhakar Jayakumar, Head Starlink India, represented Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited.
Speaking on the occasion, CM, Dr Pramod Sawant, stated, “The Government of Goa is committed to harnessing technology to drive digital transformation and improve the lives of our citizens. This partnership with Starlink is a significant step towards achieving our vision of a digitally empowered Goa.”
Shri Rohan Khaunte, Minister for ITE&C shared, “This partnership with Starlink will transform Goa’s governance landscape, leveraging modern technology to drive efficiency and responsiveness. By bridging the digital divide and enhancing public services, we’ll make Goa an even more attractive hub for investment, tourism and talent, while ensuring our citizens reap the benefits of digital progress.”
Under the MoU, DITE&C and Starlink will explore opportunities for collaboration in key areas including digital connectivity, disaster resilience and smart governance within Goa. Starlink Satellite Communications Private Limited, the Indian entity for SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet services, has expressed interest in piloting initiatives related to connectivity solutions, providing satellite broadband connectivity to select locations with limited terrestrial networks, including government schools, healthcare facilities and disaster management centers.
It will also enhance emergency preparedness, build capacity through training and explore affordable tariff structures for socially beneficial use cases. Additionally, it will support smart governance, tourism and coastal development by providing connectivity solutions for public infrastructure and services.
Through this partnership, the Government of Goa reaffirms its dedication to digital transformation, leveraging technology to drive innovation, economic prosperity and citizen welfare and building a resilient digital ecosystem for a sustainable future.
