Which Is Best Satellite Internet In India?

 While satellite internet is relatively costly, it can be accessed in even the remotest parts of the country

India is moving towards satellite internet in a big way. A number of players are expected to launch satellite internet for retail clients in the near future. Pilot projects and enterprise connections are already operational at many locations. Let us take a look at some of the best satellite internet options in India, based on estimated installation cost and monthly plans.

Starlink (SpaceX) - Operating its own low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, Starlink is ahead in the race to provide satellite internet in India. Most of the approvals have already been granted to Starlink to operate in India. Starlink is already operational in various parts of the world and is known for its high-speed, low latency internet. Plans for India are expected to be announced in the coming months. Starlink could cost around Rs 33,000 to set up. Monthly plans (limited) could start at around Rs 840. Unlimited Starlink plans for India could cost around Rs 3,000 per month.

Airtel Global Satellite Solutions (Bharti Airtel) - India's second largest telecom service provider, Airtel has partnered with Eutelsat OneWeb (LEO) and 03B (MEO) to provide satellite internet in India. Initially, the company will focus on improving rural connectivity and providing enterprise solutions. Airtel's satellite internet for retail customers may take some time to be launched. When it does, users can expect 99.9% uptime and low latency with OneWeb’s LEO satellites.

Hughes Communications India - Hughes India already offers VSAT-based broadband for businesses and government. The company relies on the JUPITER System for high-throughput services. Hughes satellite internet is primarily meant for enterprise customers and for remote site applications. All plans are customized, so actual costs may vary.

Jio Space Fiber (Reliance Jio) - Jio is working in partnership with SES (MEO satellites) to provide satellite-based broadband services. Currently, the company is operating pilot projects. Commercial operations are expected to be launched after getting the necessary approvals and spectrum allocation. Jio will also partner with OneWeb and Starlink to provide satellite internet services in India. Setup cost for Jio satellite internet could be around Rs 10,000. Monthly plans are yet to be revealed.

Ananth Technologies - This is currently a work-in-progress, with commercial operations expected to commence by 2028. Ananth Technologies could be India's first homegrown satellite internet provider. It is possible that there could be some collaboration with the Indian government. Ananth Technologies will aim to compete with other satellite internet providers such as Starlink, OneWeb and Amazon Kuiper. Not much details are available about installation cost and plans, since the company is still in the development phase.