Mumbai: India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in mobile network advancements, with a recent telecom study revealing that 5G subscriptions now constitute 23 per cent of the total mobile network subscriptions in the country. The surge represents a doubling of subscriptions in just one year, from an estimated 110–120 million in 2023 to a significant leap in 2024.
By the end of 2024, over 95 per cent of Indians are expected to have access to 5G, thanks to large-scale mid-band deployments. This widespread adoption highlights India’s swift transition to 5G, positioning the country to hold 20 per cent of global 5G fixed wireless access (FWA) by 2030.
Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have been instrumental in driving this growth. While Reliance Jio leads in 5G adoption, Bharti Airtel continues as the primary supplier of 4G networks, which remain the dominant subscription type at 54 per cent. However, the dominance of 4G is waning, with subscriptions expected to fall from 640 million in 2024 to 240 million by 2030, accounting for just 18 per cent of total mobile subscriptions.
Global Context: Usage and Technology Advancements
Globally, the trend towards 5G is undeniable, with over 80 per cent of the population expected to connect to 5G by 2030. Indians are ahead of the curve in internet usage, consuming an average of 32 GB per month, compared to the global average of 19 GB. Umang Jindal, Head of Network Solutions for Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India at Ericsson, predicts this will rise to 66 GB per month by 2030.
Furthermore, India is preparing for early 6G deployment, expected by the end of the decade. This forward-looking approach places the nation at the forefront of global telecommunications innovation.
Challenges and Opportunities
The accessibility of mobile networks, especially in rural areas, has been a major driver of growth. However, the rapid adoption of 5G poses challenges for telecom providers, including infrastructure upgrades and ensuring affordability for consumers.
India’s 5G subscriptions have surged, doubling from last year to 23 per cent of total mobile networks. A telecom study highlights declining 4G subscriptions, 95 per cent 5G coverage by 2024, and 6G deployment by 2030. Biz News Business News – Personal Finance News, Share Market News, BSE/NSE News, Stock Exchange News Today
