From cafés and airports to malls and workspaces, a fast and reliable internet connection has become essential in daily life. This underscores the increasing role of strong indoor networks to ensure seamless digital communication and productivity, especially as around 85 per cent of data traffic and 70 per cent of voice traffic originate from buildings and built-up premises.
Macro vs micro infrastructure
Network coverage remains a critical priority for telecom operators, and requires significant investment to ensure reliable connectivity with minimal downtime. Telecom operators primarily rely on two types of network infrastructure components – macro and micro sites. Macro sites, comprising ground-based towers (GBTs) and rooftop towers (RTTs), offer extensive outdoor coverage across large geographical areas. GBTs are typically 30-200 metres in height with a common 40-metre variant and deliver the necessary elevation for optimal signal transmission. These structures can accommodate up to 12-panel antennas and three 0.6 metre diameter microwave solid dish antennas. Their high load-bearing capacity makes them dependable for supporting multiple antennas and other communication equipment. Meanwhile, RTTs are installed on high-rise buildings, incorporating raised columns and tie beams that blend seamlessly with the architectural setting. With a height of 9-30 metres, rooftop pole towers can adapt to various urban environments where space is limited.
Meanwhile, micro sites encompass solutions such as distributed antenna systems (DASs) that use passive (non-powered) or active (powered) equipment such as antennas, coaxial cables and other technologies, to extend radio frequency coverage indoors. They also include optical fibre cables (OFCs), which rely on light signals rather than electrical ones. These cables, composed of thin strands of glass or plastic fibres, can handle large volumes of data over considerable distances with minimal signal loss, making them suitable for high-speed internet, telecommunications networks and data centres. Additionally, micro sites feature small cells, high-speed broadband connections and Wi-Fi networks. Furthermore, Wi-Fi 7, which is anticipated to arrive in India soon, will offer substantially higher speeds and lower latency compared to the current Wi-Fi 6, leading to improved indoor network performance and usage. This micro infrastructure directly links macro sites to end-users, significantly enhancing indoor connectivity.
Current scenario
As of December 2024, India has approximately 902.78 million wireless internet subscribers compared to just 41.19 million wired internet subscribers in homes and offices. This means that the majority of the Indian population still relies heavily on wireless networks to access the internet.
Despite significant expansions in 4G (LTE) coverage, the roll-out of 5G networks and increased availability of spectrum bands, the quality of indoor digital connectivity remains inadequate due to infrastructural deficiencies. Particularly, 4G and 5G technologies, operating at higher frequency bands, struggle to penetrate thick walls, leading to poor user experiences. Further, telecom networks face disruptions during natural disasters, under-utilisation of existing infrastructure assets, and limited spectrum availability in the country.
These challenges must be addressed as the demand for indoor network solutions has surged in recent years, while digital infrastructure developments have lagged behind. Moreover, enhancing the in-building quality of service is essential in improving overall customer satisfaction, and leveraging India’s digital economy potential, next-generation technologies and higher spectrum frequencies.
Government’s contribution
Recognising this, the government has introduced several initiatives, including the deployment of base transceiver stations (BTSs), which combine macro and micro infrastructure to ensure seamless connectivity. Since the launch of 5G services in October 2022, around 0.47 million 5G BTSs have been installed nationwide as of February 2025, making it one of the fastest global roll-outs of 5G services. Currently, 5G mobile services cover approximately 99.6 per cent of districts across India.
Similarly, the government’s GatiShakti Sanchar Portal, introduced to manage right-of-way applications, has streamlined bureaucratic processes by establishing transparent procedures and reducing paperwork. As a result, the average application disposal time has dropped from 448 days in 2019 to around 60 days in December 2024. By streamlining approvals in a time-bound manner, the portal has driven a significant increase in the clearance of towers and OFC permissions, totalling 0.32 million since its inception.
To further address the problem of inadequate infrastructure, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), in October 2024, introduced the “Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024”, to provide a framework to assess and rate buildings for their digital infrastructure. The goal is to encourage property managers to offer strong digital connectivity as higher-rated properties are expected to attract more users, buyers and investors. Mandating digital readiness for building approvals, at par with electricity and water, would accelerate adoption, benefitting tenants with better services and property managers with higher rentals.
As part of these regulations, TRAI has decided to set up a dedicated “rating platform”, where a Digital Connectivity Rating Agency (DCRA) will evaluate properties and assign ratings of one to five stars across residential, commercial, governmental and public spaces such as stadiums and transport corridors. To apply for this, property managers must register on the platform and pay a fee, with DCRAs disclosing their own fees and terms before proceeding.
Further, if a state’s model building by laws lack provisions on digital connectivity, the guidelines from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs will serve as a reference. Overall, this rating system aims to ensure standardised, reliable digital connectivity across properties.
Key industry contributions
Telecom operators have been instrumental in rolling out innovative technologies aimed at enhancing indoor connectivity, making it more efficient and seamless for their end users. Since September 2024, Bharti Airtel has undertaken significant network upgrades in three of its circles by deploying additional spectrum. Specifically, the operator has added 5 MHz of spectrum in the 2100 MHz band in the Uttar Pradesh (West) and Uttarakhand circles, 5 MHz in the 2100 MHz band plus 3.8 MHz in the 900 MHz band in the Jammu & Kashmir and Leh and Ladakh circles, and an extra 5 MHz in the 1800 MHz band in the Kolkata circle. This expansion is expected to enhance data speeds and significantly improve indoor coverage in both urban and rural regions, enhancing user experience within homes and commercial buildings.
Meanwhile, Vodafone Idea Limited (Vi) has made strides in strengthening its network infrastructure. According to Jagbir Singh, chief technology officer, Vi, the company has established 46,000 new sites over the past year and increased capacity at more than 58,000 existing sites. These measures aim to transform customers’ indoor connectivity experiences, delivering smooth and uninterrupted communication in diverse environments and helping bridge the digital gap.
Meanwhile, Jio Platforms Limited has adopted Jio’s Indoor Small Cell (IDSC), a compact 2T2R solution, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional DAS. IDSC offers robust indoor coverage, minimal interference and exceptional data speeds, surpassing many public Wi-Fi hotspots. This technology is particularly beneficial for indoor 5G deployments in enterprise and public environments such as airports, malls, hospitals and offices, reinforcing Jio’s commitment to premium indoor broadband experiences.
Non-telecom players have also made remarkable progress in tackling the long-standing challenges of indoor connectivity. Telecommunications Consultants India Limited (TCIL), a premier engineering and consultancy firm under the ownership of the Government of India, operates under the administrative guidance of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications. Over the years, TCIL has successfully deployed and maintained in-building solutions in various government establishments, including prominent facilities such as AIIMS Delhi, Chacha Nehru Bal Chiktsalaya Delhi, Bhagwan Mahavir Hospital Delhi and Sanjay Gandhi Hospital Delhi. These projects underscore TCIL’s role in enhancing indoor network coverage in high-priority public spaces, thereby supporting India’s digital transformation agenda.
The way ahead
Moving forward, as India ushers in the era of digitalisation, the demand for robust indoor network coverage will be higher than ever. With the country opening up to more companies entering the Indian market, this need will only comma after intensify, driven by increased hiring, infrastructure development and technology advancements.
Additionally, towercos are adopting innovative technologies and deploying energy efficient equipment to reduce energy requirements at telecom sites. Aligning with global environmental goals, DoT and TRAI are actively promoting green energy solutions. This will require collaboration among all stakeholders, including telecom operators, government bodies, regulatory authorities and infrastructure providers. Embracing innovative solutions, ensuring that regulatory frameworks keep pace with technological evolution and prioritising infrastructure development will be key drivers of success. Through enhanced coordination among stakeholders, India can overcome its indoor connectivity challenges and pave the way for a truly robust digital future.
