Telecom Exports Surge 72% in 5 Years, Imports Remain Stable

Telecom exports from India have grown significantly over the last 5 years, according to Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia. The minister informed the Lok Sabha on December 16, 2025, that exports increased by 72%, rising from ₹10,000 crore in 2020–21 to ₹18,406 crore in 2024–25.

During the same period, telecom imports remained stable at approximately ₹51,000 crore, indicating a shift in India’s trade dynamics. This growth reflects India’s progress in manufacturing and technology-driven services within the telecom sector.

From Importer to Innovator

Presenting the figures before the House, Scindia highlighted that the surge in exports demonstrates India’s transformation from a major telecom importer to a globally competitive hub. The minister emphasised that this progress is supported by domestic manufacturing initiatives and the adoption of advanced technologies.

India’s telecom industry now offers a mix of hardware, software, and service solutions that cater to international markets. This shift aligns with the government’s broader vision of positioning India as a leader in digital infrastructure and innovation.

Rapid 5G Rollout Across Districts

Scindia also provided an update on India’s 5G deployment, noting that 767 out of 778 districts have already been connected to the 5G network. This extensive rollout underscores India’s commitment to building next-generation connectivity across urban and rural regions.

The minister stated that India currently has around 36 crore 5G subscribers, reflecting strong adoption of high-speed mobile services. He added that the number is expected to rise to 42 crore by 2026 and reach 100 crore by 2030, marking a significant milestone in digital inclusion.

SATCOM Policy and Spectrum Framework

Addressing satellite communication (SATCOM), Scindia explained that global experience shows SATCOM is essential for areas where conventional BTS or fibre-based connectivity is not feasible. India has introduced a policy framework to ensure SATCOM services are available nationwide, complementing terrestrial networks.

Three licences have already been issued to Starlink, OneWeb, and Reliance, enabling operators to prepare for commercial services. The minister noted that spectrum assignment and pricing, currently under review by TRAI, are key steps before full-scale deployment begins.

Read More: India's Textile and Apparel Exports Registered Growth of Over 9% in November 2025.

Conclusion

India’s telecom sector has witnessed remarkable progress, with exports rising sharply and imports remaining steady over the past 5 years. The rapid expansion of 5G coverage and the introduction of SATCOM policies further strengthen India’s position as a technology-driven economy.

These developments reflect a strategic shift from dependency on imports to building a robust domestic ecosystem for telecom products and services. With spectrum allocation and policy measures underway, India is poised to deliver comprehensive connectivity solutions across the country.

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