Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development Dr. Chandrashekhar Pemmasani told the Rajya Dabha that 5G services have been started in 99.9% of the districts across the country, and it has almost reached all the states and union territories. People are experiencing faster internet and better calls now. This is a major achievement for citizens in both urban and rural areas. Remarkably, India has achieved this milestone even without BSNL launching its own 5G network.
How Many 5G Towers Are Installed?
The Minister shared that by October 31, over 508,000 5G towers (base transceiver stations) have been installed across India, covering both cities and villages. Overall, the country now has more than 3.1 million mobile towers. Both private and public companies are contributing to this effort, and many towers are shared to reduce costs and speed up network expansion. Despite BSNL not yet launching 5G, India has reached this significant milestone.
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Strengthening Network in Critical Areas
The government has taken steps to improve connectivity in areas with poor internet or frequent call drops. Initiatives include:
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- Expanding broadband to villages under BharatNet.
- Providing mobile services in Naxal-affected areas.
- Implementing the 4G Saturation Plan to ensure every village has 4G coverage.
- Launching the Gati Shakti Communications portal.
- Allowing easy installation of small roadside towers.
These measures are helping even remote areas receive reliable network coverage.
5G Coverage Nearing 90%, Focus Shifts to 6G
The government claims that 5G coverage has reached around 90% of the country. Now, attention is turning to preparing for the next generation, 6G. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will play a major role in 6G, enabling smart cities, autonomous vehicles, and even remote surgeries. Building a strong network and developing new technologies for 6G has already begun.
India to Keep Pace in 6G Development
Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said that India has set up seven working groups under the 6G Alliance. All these groups focus on technology, spectrum, devices, applications, and environmental considerations, working together to ensure progress across all areas. Monthly reviews will ensure lessons from one area benefit others. Spectrum policy will be the backbone of 6G, and India has already reallocated significant spectrum and plans to do more. With these steps, India aims to move forward in 6G alongside the rest of the world.