National Telecom Policy 2025
India’s draft National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2025 outlines ambitious goals to transform the telecommunications sector by 2030. The government aims to double investment to ₹1 trillion annually and boost exports of telecom products and services twofold. The policy also targets creating 1 million new jobs and up-skilling an equal number of individuals to meet future demands.
Investment and Economic Growth
The NTP 2025 seeks to double the telecom sector’s contribution to India’s GDP within five years. It plans to increase annual investment to ₹1 trillion. This will support infrastructure development, research, and domestic manufacturing. The policy encourages growth in startups, aiming to double their numbers, thus encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship.
Network Infrastructure Expansion
A major focus is on expanding and upgrading network infrastructure. The policy sets a target to increase tower fiberisation from 46% to 80% by 2030. It also aims for 90% 5G population coverage nationwide. Universal and meaningful connectivity is a priority, with plans to connect all village-level government institutions and provide fixed-line broadband to 100 million households.
Rural Connectivity and Digital Inclusion
To bridge the urban-rural divide, the policy proposes schemes under the Digital Bharat Nidhi. It includes incentives for companies to expand fixed-line broadband in rural areas. Support for smaller internet service providers will enhance last-mile connectivity. These measures aim to ensure rural India benefits from digital growth and services.
Domestic Manufacturing and Supply Chain
The policy promotes domestic production through the creation of telecom manufacturing zones. These zones will integrate infrastructure for the design and production of telecom and network equipment. Building an end-to-end supply chain within India is a key objective to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen the domestic industry.
Research, Innovation, and Talent Development
NTP 2025 plans to establish 30 advanced research laboratories in premier institutions like Indian Institutes of Technology. These labs will focus on emerging telecom technologies and help produce an industry-ready workforce. Increased sectoral R&D spending is targeted to drive cutting-edge innovation.
Security and Cybersecurity Measures
Security of telecom networks is a critical concern. The policy proposes the development of infrastructure secure against quantum and classical computing threats. It emphasises endpoint security with indigenous detection and response solutions. AI and machine learning will be leveraged to enforce cybersecurity frameworks, including AI-based incident reporting.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability
The policy aims to reduce the telecom sector’s carbon footprint by 30%. This reflects a commitment to sustainable development and responsible growth within the industry.
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