DoT MoS Pemmasani Highlights India’s Telecom Growth and 6G Vision at DIGICOM Summit

New Delhi, April 24, 2026: Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development Dr Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar on Thursday said India’s telecom sector has undergone a major transformation over the past decade, driven by policy reforms, industry participation and rapid digital expansion.

Speaking at the COAI DIGICOM Summit 2026 in Delhi, he said emerging technologies such as 6G, artificial intelligence and quantum computing will define the next phase of growth, calling for stronger collaboration between government and industry.

He highlighted key reforms including the Telecommunications Act 2023, which modernised India’s telecom regulatory framework after more than a century, along with measures that improved financial stability such as adjusted gross revenue relief, a moratorium on dues and removal of bank guarantees.

Dr Pemmasani said digital infrastructure initiatives like BharatNet aim to connect over 2.6 lakh gram panchayats, marking the world’s largest rural broadband rollout. He also cited streamlined right of way approvals through Gati Shakti Sanchar and improved spectrum planning under the National Frequency Allocation Plan 2025.

On digital safety, he noted that platforms such as Sanchar Saathi, Chakshu, ASTR and the Digital Intelligence Platform are strengthening protection against spam, fraud and cyber threats, with millions of fraudulent connections already blocked.

The minister said the sector recorded ₹3.72 lakh crore revenue in FY25 with 10.7 percent growth, while 5G rollout reached over 5.1 lakh base stations covering more than 400 million users. FDI inflows of over ₹2.4 lakh crore reflect strong investor confidence.

He urged telecom operators to increase R&D investment, currently under 1 percent of revenue, to support India’s 6G ambitions and global competitiveness.