767 districts covered by 5G network
India’s telecom exports have increased by 72% over the last five years to Rs.18,406 crore in 2024–25 from Rs.10,000 crore in 2020–21 while imports have remained capped at around Rs.51,000 crore, Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya M. Scindia said in an update on the industry.
India is not only moving rapidly towards self-reliance in the telecom sector but is also preparing itself for global leadership, he added.
Scindia has also highlighted India’s achievements in 5G deployment, saying 767 districts have already been connected to the 5G network out of 778 districts in the country.
He further stated that India currently has 36 crore 5G subscribers, a number expected to rise to 42 crore by 2026 and reach 100 crore by 2030.
On SATCOM, the Minister said that worldwide experience shows that areas which cannot be connected through conventional BTS or backhaul, or through broadband connectivity using optical fibre cable, can only be served through satellite communications. 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 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 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, said the Minister on 17 Dec. fiinews.com
