New Delhi, March 21 (BNP): Minister of State for Communications Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar on Saturday highlighted India’s rapid expansion in 5G services and outlined an ambitious roadmap to emerge as a global leader in 6G technologies.
Addressing the ET Telecom 5G Summit in New Delhi, the Minister said India is expected to reach nearly one billion 5G users by 2031, underscoring the transformative potential of next-generation connectivity in driving economic growth and digital inclusion.
He attributed the sector’s rapid progress to a series of structural reforms, including the redefinition of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR), removal of Spectrum Usage Charges (SUC), and rationalisation of bank guarantees, which have improved the financial health of telecom operators and encouraged large-scale investments in network infrastructure.
The Minister also pointed to key policy measures such as streamlined Right of Way (RoW) approvals, improved spectrum management, protection of telecom infrastructure, and simplified licensing processes, all of which have accelerated the rollout of telecom networks across the country.
Emphasising governance reforms, Dr. Pemmasani noted a shift within the Department of Telecommunications towards an outcome-oriented approach, drawing on private sector efficiency. He said the focus is now on speed, accountability, and execution, supported by real-time monitoring and close coordination with stakeholders including service providers, startups, vendors, and state governments.
On rural connectivity, he said nearly 35,000 remote villages are being connected through 4G infrastructure, with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited playing a key role in improving network uptime and strengthening infrastructure in underserved regions.
Highlighting progress under BharatNet, the Minister said the government is investing around USD 17 billion to connect 2.6 lakh Gram Panchayats with high-speed broadband, laying a strong digital foundation for future technologies.
Looking ahead, Dr. Pemmasani said India aims to secure about 10 per cent of global 6G patents and contribute actively to international standard-setting bodies such as 3GPP. He stressed that early participation in global standards is crucial for technological leadership and economic competitiveness.
Citing examples from countries like South Korea, he said early engagement in telecom standards helped companies such as Samsung and LG become global leaders, adding that India aims to replicate similar success.
The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering innovation through a startup-friendly ecosystem, simplified regulations, and faster certification processes. He noted ongoing efforts to enhance service quality, strengthen telecom security frameworks, and promote indigenous technology development.
Concluding his address, Dr. Pemmasani said India has transitioned from being a telecom market to a global technology creator, driven by collaboration between policymakers, industry, and innovators.
