Union minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region has presented data on India’s 5G success and the growth of telecom exports before the Lok Sabha. He informed that India’s telecom exports have increased by 72 per cent over the last five years, while imports have remained stable at the same level. These figures reflect the story of India’s growing self-reliance in the telecom sector.
Responding to a question, the minister stated that India’s telecom exports have risen from Rs 100 billion in 2020-21 to Rs 184.06 billion in 2024–25, marking a growth of 72 per cent, while imports have remained capped at around Rs 510 billion.
In response to supplementary question, the minister highlighted India’s achievements in 5G deployment. He informed that out of 778 districts in the country, 767 districts have already been connected to the 5G network. He further stated that India currently has 360 million 5G subscribers, a number expected to rise to 420 million by 2026 and reach 1 billion by 2030.
Further, speaking about satellite communication (satcom), the minister said that worldwide experience shows that areas which cannot be connected through conventional base transceiver stations (BTS) or backhaul, or through broadband connectivity using optical fibre cable, can only be served through satcom. In this context, India has taken a decisive step to ensure that satcom services are made available to customers across the length and breadth of the country.
He noted that the objective of the government is to offer a full bouquet of telecom services to every customer, enabling individuals to make informed choices based on their needs and preferred price points.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the satcom policy framework is firmly in place, with spectrum slated for administrative assignment. Three licences have already been issued — to Starlink, OneWeb and Reliance.
He further explained that two key aspects must be addressed before operators can commence commercial services. The first pertains to spectrum assignment, including the determination of administrative spectrum charges, which falls under the purview of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). TRAI is currently engaged in finalising the pricing framework. The second aspect relates to security clearances from enforcement agencies. To facilitate this process, operators have been provided with sample spectrum to conduct demonstrations, and all three licensees are currently undertaking the required compliance activities. Once the operators demonstrate adherence to prescribed security norms, including the requirement to host international gateways within India, the necessary approvals will be granted, enabling the rollout of satcom services to customers.
