India’s Digital Infrastructure Sees Massive Expansion as Govt Reports Sharp Rise in Fibre Network, Mobile Coverage and Broadband Access
India’s digital infrastructure has undergone a significant transformation over the past seven years, with the optical fibre cable (OFC) network, mobile towers, broadband subscriptions and data consumption experiencing record growth. The information was shared in Parliament on Wednesday by Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar, Union Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development.
OFC Network and Mobile Infrastructure Show Major Growth
According to government data presented in the Lok Sabha, the optical fibre cable network expanded from 17.5 lakh km in March 2018 to 42.36 lakh km as of September 2025 — marking one of India’s largest digital infrastructure upgrades.
Similarly, the number of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) rose from 17.3 lakh in March 2018 to 31.4 lakh in October 2025, supporting stronger and more reliable mobile networks across the country.
Mobile Connectivity Reaches Nearly All Villages
Out of India’s 6,44,131 villages, as of October 2025:
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6,34,019 villages have mobile connectivity
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6,30,676 villages have 4G services
This expansion is part of the government’s push to reduce digital gaps, especially in remote and rural regions.
Broadband and Public Wi-Fi See Sharp Growth
Broadband usage has nearly doubled in seven years.
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Broadband subscriptions increased from 48 crore (September 2018) to 98 crore (June 2025)
Public Wi-Fi availability has also expanded significantly under the PM-WANI (Public Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) scheme:
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3.80 lakh PM-WANI hotspots installed across India as of October 31, 2025
Data Consumption Surges, Tariffs Decline
India continues to maintain its position as one of the world’s largest data consumers.
Per capita wireless data usage rose from:
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8.32 GB/month (September 2018)
to -
25.24 GB/month (September 2025)
Meanwhile, average wireless data tariffs dropped from:
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₹10.91 per GB to ₹8.27 per GB in the same period
This combination of higher consumption and lower tariffs has strengthened India’s digital economy and online services ecosystem.
Government Schemes Driving Rural Digital Expansion
To ensure equitable digital access, the government is implementing major schemes under the Digital Bharat Nidhi, including:
- 4G saturation projects
- Amended BharatNet Programme (to extend high-speed broadband to rural & remote areas)
These initiatives aim to connect underserved regions, enabling e-governance, telemedicine, online learning and financial inclusion services.
Policy Reforms Strengthening Telecom Sector
The Minister highlighted key reforms that have contributed to overall sector stability and growth:
Financial and Regulatory Reforms
- Rationalisation of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR)
- Rationalisation of bank guarantees
- Removal of penalties and reduced interest burdens
- No bank guarantees required for spectrum auctions post–September 2021
- Option to surrender spectrum after 10 years in future auctions
Spectrum and Licensing Reforms
- No Spectrum Usage Charge (SUC) for auctions after September 15, 2021
- Removal of additional 0.5% SUC for spectrum sharing
- 100% FDI under automatic route in the telecom sector
- Replacement of 1953 Customs Notification licensing requirement for wireless equipment with self-declaration, easing processes for businesses
These measures have attracted investments, reduced compliance burdens and helped telecom companies stabilise operations.
Conclusion
With sharp increases in fibre deployment, mobile connectivity, data consumption and broadband access, India’s digital advancement over the last decade marks a crucial step toward inclusive digital transformation. Government-backed reforms and schemes continue to accelerate connectivity in rural and tribal areas, laying the foundation for a stronger telecom and digital economy.
Final Thoughts from Chronicle
India’s latest digital infrastructure data reflects a decisive shift toward universal connectivity. With expanded fibre networks, rising mobile and broadband penetration, and supportive reforms for telecom operators, the nation is steadily progressing toward a fully digital future. As rural regions come online and data-driven services deepen their reach, the next phase will depend on sustaining affordability, ensuring quality of service and strengthening cybersecurity for a rapidly connected population.
