Network Readiness Index 2024

India has achieved remarkable progress in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024. The country has climbed 11 places to rank 49th, up from 60th in 2023, which evaluates 133 economies based on technology, people, governance, and impact.

Key Areas of Evaluation

The NRI assesses four main areas – Technology, People, Governance, and Impact, which utilize 54 different indicators to measure performance. This comprehensive evaluation provides vital information about each country’s digital readiness.

India’s Score Improvement

India’s score has risen from 49.93 in 2023 to 53.63 in 2024. This improvement reflects the country’s enhanced digital infrastructure and services.

Leading Indicators

India ranks 1st in “AI scientific publications,” “AI talent concentration,” and “ICT services exports.” It holds the 2nd position for “FTTH/Building Internet subscriptions,” “Mobile broadband internet traffic,” and “International Internet bandwidth.” Additionally, it ranks 3rd in “Domestic market scale” and 4th in “Annual investment in telecommunication services.”

Performance Among Lower-Middle-Income Countries

Among lower-middle-income countries, India ranks 2nd, following Vietnam. This positioning marks India’s important advancements in digital technology compared to its peers.

Digital Transformation Initiatives

India’s digital transformation has accelerated over the past decade. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has overseen substantial growth in telecommunication infrastructure. Tele density has risen from 75.2% to 84.69%. Wireless connections have reached 119 crore.

Impact of Digital India Initiative

The Digital India initiative has increased broadband access in rural areas. Internet subscribers have surged from 25.1 crore to 94.4 crore, with a notable rise in wireless internet usage.

Reforms in spectrum management, business regulations, and consumer protection have boosted the telecom sector. These changes have created a more conducive environment for growth and innovation.

Advancements in 5G Services

India launched 5G services in 2022, boosting its global mobile broadband speed ranking from 118th to 15th. This rapid improvement puts stress on India’s commitment to enhancing its telecommunications capabilities.

India is pursuing the Bharat 6G Vision, aiming to lead in future telecom technologies. Investments in emerging technologies and strong data capabilities will support this vision.

Important Facts for Exams:

1. NRI – The Network Readiness Index evaluates countries’ digital readiness. It assesses technology, people, governance, and impact using 54 indicators. India’s rank improved from 60th to 49th in 2024.
2. DoT – The Department of Telecommunications oversees India’s telecommunication infrastructure. It has facilitated important growth in tele density, rising from 75.2% to 84.69% over the last decade.
3. Bharat 6G Vision – This initiative aims to position India as a leader in future telecom technologies. It focuses on investments in emerging technologies and enhancing data capabilities for better connectivity.

Month: Current Affairs - November, 2024

Category: Reports & Indexes Current Affairs