New Delhi, Dec 17 (NationPress) India’s annual telecom exports have soared by 72%, reaching over Rs 18,406 crore in the past five years, as reported by Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia in Parliament on Wednesday.

In response to a query during the Lok Sabha session, the minister revealed that India’s telecom exports have increased from Rs 10,000 crore in 2020–21 to Rs 18,406 crore by 2024–25, while imports have stabilized at around Rs 51,000 crore. He emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India is swiftly progressing towards self-sufficiency in the telecom domain and is gearing up for global prominence.

Addressing a supplementary inquiry, Scindia underscored India's strides in 5G deployment. He noted that out of 778 districts in the nation, 767 districts are already linked to the 5G network. Presently, India boasts 36 crore 5G subscribers, a figure projected to rise to 42 crore by 2026 and reach 100 crore by 2030.

Regarding SATCOM, Scindia stated that global insights indicate that regions lacking connection via traditional BTS or broadband using optical fiber can only be served through satellite communications. In this context, India has taken significant steps to ensure SATCOM services are accessible nationwide.

The government aims to provide a comprehensive range of telecom services to all customers, allowing them to make informed decisions based on their preferences and budgets.

The Union Minister pointed out that the SATCOM policy framework is robust, with spectrum set for administrative allocation. Three licenses have already been granted — to Starlink, OneWeb, and Reliance.

He further explained that two pivotal issues must be tackled before operators can launch commercial services. The first involves spectrum allocation, including the establishment of administrative spectrum fees, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

The second issue pertains to security clearances from enforcement agencies. To aid this, operators have been given a sample spectrum for demonstrations, and all three licensees are currently fulfilling the necessary compliance requirements.

Once operators showcase adherence to the mandated security standards — including hosting international gateways within India — the required approvals will be granted, allowing the rollout of SATCOM services to customers, the minister concluded.