New telecom policy targets export surge and job growth by 2030

India’s forthcoming National Telecom Policy (NTP) sets an ambitious vision for 2030, aiming to double telecom exports and achieve universal connectivity. The policy seeks to raise the ICT sector’s contribution to GDP to 11% while drawing substantial investments into telecom infrastructure.

Key priorities include generating employment in emerging technologies such as 5G, AI, and quantum communications, and integrating satellite networks with terrestrial systems to broaden service reach. The policy also envisions nationwide 4G/5G coverage and comprehensive fiber connectivity, ensuring seamless digital access across urban and rural India.

India’s forthcoming National Telecom Policy (NTP) sets an ambitious vision for transforming the country’s digital landscape by 2030. At its core, the policy aims to double telecom product exports and achieve universal connectivity at affordable rates. Developed by the Ministry of Communications in collaboration with key industry stakeholders, the policy outlines a comprehensive roadmap to position India as a global telecom powerhouse while ensuring inclusive access to digital infrastructure across the nation.

One of the primary objectives of the policy is to increase the contribution of the information and communications technology (ICT) sector to the country’s GDP from the current 7.8 percent to 11 percent by 2030. To support this goal, the government plans to attract annual investments worth ₹1.5 lakh crore in telecom infrastructure, enabling large-scale deployment of advanced technologies and expansion of digital services.

The policy builds on existing efforts to promote self-reliance in telecom manufacturing, especially through the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme. As of March 31, 2025, the telecom industry recorded total sales of ₹80,927 crore under the scheme, with exports accounting for ₹14,915 crore. The new policy aims to further boost local production and double telecom exports over the next five years, strengthening India’s position in the global value chain.

Another key pillar of the policy is job creation, with a target of generating one million new employment opportunities by 2030. These jobs will primarily be in future-focused domains such as 5G and 6G technologies, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, big data, and quantum communications. This will require strong collaboration between government, industry, and academia to develop skill-building programs and create a future-ready workforce.

To ensure equitable access to digital services, the NTP will prioritize both terrestrial and satellite-based solutions. The policy envisions universal 4G coverage and 5G availability for 90 percent of the population by 2030. Fiber connectivity will also be significantly expanded, with targets including the fiberisation of all gram panchayats under BharatNet and fiber links to all government institutions at the village level. Additionally, the fixed-line broadband network is set to grow from 45 million to 100 million households, and one million public Wi-Fi hotspots are planned across the country.

Satellite communication systems, especially non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) networks, are expected to play a vital role in connecting remote and underserved regions. Companies such as Starlink, Amazon Kuiper, Eutelsat OneWeb, and the Jio-SES joint venture are preparing to deploy services in India. The Department of Telecommunications has already granted operating permits to Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio-SES, while a letter of intent has been issued to Starlink.

By integrating satellite systems with terrestrial networks, the policy aims to create a seamless and resilient digital infrastructure that reaches every corner of the country. This convergence will be instrumental in overcoming geographical barriers and ensuring that rural and remote communities are not left behind in India’s digital growth story.

In summary, the National Telecom Policy 2025 represents a bold and forward-looking framework to accelerate India’s digital transformation. With clear targets for exports, connectivity, job creation, and investment, the policy is poised to unlock new opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and social inclusion, positioning India as a leader in the global digital economy.