The world is rapidly advancing towards faster internet and more robust network infrastructure, with India emerging as a key player in this technological evolution. Following its achievements in 3G, 4G, and 5G, India is now gearing up to take the lead in 6G technology.
Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has emphasized that India is ready to set a new global standard in 6G, although a specific timeline for the government’s divestment from Vodafone-Idea has yet to be established. In recent statements to reporters, Scindia elaborated on India’s future plans and the telecom sector’s critical role in the country’s economic growth.
Scindia highlighted the telecom industry’s pivotal contribution to India’s economy, noting a substantial increase in mobile connections—from 900 million to 1,150 million in recent years. Internet subscriptions have also surged, rising from 200 million to 950 million. This growth has been accompanied by a significant reduction in data and calling costs, making telecommunications more accessible to the general public.
India’s potential to lead in 6G development is evident. While it initially followed in the adoption of 3G, 4G, and 5G technologies, the country is now positioned to spearhead the development and implementation of 6G. Scindia stressed that in the coming years, the world will look to India for innovation and leadership in network technology.
The nation’s push for self-reliance is reflected in the rollout of 4G services for Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and the rapid expansion of 5G networks. According to Scindia, India ranks as one of the top countries globally to develop its own 4G network infrastructure, including core, radio access networks, and data centers.
This domestic capability allows India to minimize foreign exchange expenditures and reduce dependence on foreign nations for telecom services—a significant advantage that aligns with the country’s broader economic goals.
Scindia also highlighted the success of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which has been crucial in promoting telecom equipment manufacturing within the country. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that every citizen has access to a robust network.
To further bolster India’s position in the global telecom arena, the government is focusing on establishing 5G labs and encouraging new startups to innovate in this sector. Scindia expressed a strong desire for India to develop and manufacture its own telecom equipment, which would reinforce the country’s technological independence and contribute to economic growth.
India is not merely catching up but is preparing to take the lead in the next generation of telecom technologies. With targeted strategies centered on self-reliance, innovation, and widespread network access, the country is poised to make significant advancements in the global telecommunications landscape.
