Key Points
- The new National Telecom Policy aims to make India digitally empowered by 2030, with affordable connectivity and robust infrastructure.
- Government targets to double telecom product exports and create 10 lakh (1 million) new high-tech jobs.
- ICT’s share in India’s GDP is set to rise from 7.8% to 11% by 2030.
- Universal 4G coverage and 90% 5G coverage across India by 2030 are major goals.
- BharatNet will connect all gram panchayats with fiber optics; 10 lakh public Wi-Fi hotspots to be installed nationwide.
- Satellite internet from global giants like Starlink, OneWeb, and Jio-SES will soon be available.
- The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme is fueling self-reliance and export growth in telecom manufacturing.
New Delhi: The Government of India is set to unveil its ambitious National Telecom Policy, which promises to transform the country’s digital landscape by 2030. The policy, currently being finalized by the Ministry of Communications in consultation with industry stakeholders, is designed to make digital connectivity affordable and accessible to every Indian, while also boosting exports and creating a wave of high-tech jobs.
Major Goals and Initiatives
1. Affordable, Universal Connectivity
- 4G for All, 5G for Most: The policy aims to provide 4G network coverage to 100% of the population and 5G coverage to 90% by 2030. This will be achieved through a mix of traditional tower networks and advanced satellite connectivity.
- Fiber to Every Village: Under the BharatNet initiative, every gram panchayat will be connected via high-speed fiber optics, ensuring rural India is not left behind.
- 10 Lakh Public Wi-Fi Hotspots: To make internet truly accessible, the government plans to install one million public Wi-Fi hotspots across the country.
2. Boosting Exports and Self-Reliance
- Doubling Telecom Exports: The policy sets an ambitious target to double the export of telecom products by 2030.
- PLI Scheme Success: As of March 2025, telecom companies have recorded sales of ₹80,927 crore under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, with exports reaching ₹14,915 crore. The scheme is driving local manufacturing and reducing dependence on imports.
3. Massive Job Creation and Digital Skills
- 10 Lakh High-Tech Jobs: The telecom sector is expected to generate one million new jobs, especially in emerging fields like 5G, 6G, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, Cybersecurity, and Quantum Communication.
- Skill Development: The policy will prioritize digital skill-building to prepare India’s youth for the future workforce.
4. Raising ICT’s Share in GDP
- The government aims to increase the contribution of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to India’s GDP from 7.8% to 11% by 2030, reflecting the sector’s growing importance in the national economy.
5. Satellite Internet Revolution
- Global Players Enter India: Major international satellite internet providers like Amazon Kuiper, Starlink (SpaceX), Eutelsat-OneWeb, and Jio-SES are set to launch services in India. The government has already granted satcom permits to OneWeb and Jio-SES, while Starlink has received a letter of intent.
- Bridging the Digital Divide: Satellite networks will play a crucial role in connecting remote and underserved regions, supporting the government’s goal of universal internet access.
The National Telecom Policy 2030 is poised to be a game-changer for India’s digital future. By focusing on affordable connectivity, export growth, job creation, and cutting-edge technology adoption, the policy aims to position India as a global leader in the digital economy. The next steps include final stakeholder consultations and a formal rollout, expected later this year.
