India Sets 1 Billion 5G Users Target by 2030, Says Communications Minister

NEW DELHI — Communications Minister Anil Kumar Scindia told delegates at the 2026 International Mobile Congress that India will aim to bring its 5G subscriber base to 1 billion by 2030, up from the current 550 million users. The minister also highlighted a planned reduction in data charges to ₹8 per gigabyte as part of the broader strategy to expand affordable connectivity.

IMC 2026 Highlights

The announcement was made during a panel discussion on the future of mobile networks. Scindia outlined a phased roadmap that aligns with the Ministry of Communications’ 2025–2030 telecom policy. The minister emphasized that the target is part of a larger vision to make India a global leader in next‑generation networks.

Current 5G Landscape

India’s 5G rollout began in 2021 with the launch of commercial services by the four major operators. By the end of 2025, the country had deployed 5G across 1,200 cities and towns, covering an estimated 70 % of the population. The current subscriber base of 550 million represents a 12 % share of the total mobile users, according to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) data released in September 2026.

Data consumption on 5G networks has risen sharply, with average monthly usage per user reaching 15 GB in 2025. However, the average cost of data remains a barrier for many, especially in rural areas where average prices hover around ₹12 per GB.

Strategic Roadmap

Scindia’s roadmap includes the introduction of 6G research initiatives, satellite‑based broadband, and artificial‑intelligence‑driven network management. The Ministry plans to allocate 1.5 GHz of spectrum for 6G trials by 2028, while a new satellite constellation is slated for launch in 2029 to provide last‑mile connectivity in remote regions.

AI integration is expected to optimize network traffic and reduce latency, making high‑definition video streaming and real‑time applications more reliable. The minister noted that these technologies will be integrated into the 5G core by 2030 to support the projected user base.

Policy and Investment

The government’s telecom policy for 2025–2030 includes a ₹30 billion subsidy for rural 5G infrastructure, a 10 % tax break on 5G equipment for operators, and a streamlined spectrum auction process. The policy also sets a target of 30 % of total 5G investment to be directed toward small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups.

In addition, the Ministry has announced a public‑private partnership model to accelerate the deployment of small cell sites, with a goal of installing 2 million new sites by 2030. This initiative is expected to create 150 000 jobs in the telecom sector.

Challenges and Outlook

Despite the ambitious target, several challenges remain. Spectrum scarcity, especially in the 3.5 GHz band, could delay network expansion. Rural connectivity gaps persist, with only 45 % of villages having any 4G coverage. The cost of deploying infrastructure in hilly and forested areas also poses logistical hurdles.

Competition from international operators and the need to maintain affordable data prices will require careful regulatory oversight. TRAI has indicated that it will monitor pricing trends closely to prevent anti‑competitive practices.

Scindia stressed that achieving the 1 billion user target will depend on sustained investment, regulatory support, and technological innovation. The minister called on industry stakeholders to collaborate closely with the government to meet the 2030 milestone.