A significant point of contention in the industry is the debate over spectrum allocation, with Starlink advocating for direct assignment rather than auctioning, a position that aligns with the Indian government's stance.

This technology not only enables Bhutanese entrepreneurs to access global markets but also supports remote work, enhancing the country's digital landscape.

As Starlink expands its services, it joins a growing list of countries with active access, including the USA, Canada, and Australia, with expectations for future availability in Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite-based internet service, is on the verge of launching in India, pending final regulatory approvals.

The company plans to establish a network control and monitoring center in India, ensuring that Indian data will not be routed through neighboring countries.

In Bhutan, Starlink has introduced two plans: the Residential Lite plan at Nu 3,000 per month and the Standard Residential plan at Nu 4,200 per month, both designed to provide high-speed internet access in remote areas.

Starlink's pricing structure also includes a Mobile Priority Plan for users on-the-go, starting at 21,000 BTN and offering various data packages.

The introduction of high-speed internet is expected to boost digital entrepreneurship and enhance tourism through online promotions and virtual tours.

Local authorities and residents in Bhutan express optimism about the positive impact of Starlink on the country's technological integration efforts.

The hardware required for Starlink services in Bhutan ranges from Nu 17,000 for a Mini Starlink Kit to Nu 231,000 for a high-performance kit.

However, Starlink's rollout in India has faced delays due to security concerns, with authorities having seized equipment in late 2024 over illegal internet use.

The Indian government is currently reviewing SpaceX's application for necessary licenses, which has added to the uncertainty surrounding the service's launch.