How is India Advancing in the Global ‘Network Readiness Index’?
Synopsis
India's impressive leap in the global 'Network Readiness Index 2025' highlights its technological advancements and robust digital infrastructure, making it a leader in several key indicators. Explore how these improvements are paving the way for a connected future.
Key Takeaways
India ranks 45th in the global 'Network Readiness Index 2025'.
Improved score from 53.63 to 54.43 .
Leads in multiple indicators including telecommunication investment and AI publications .
Second in lower-middle-income countries for network readiness.
Expansion of 5G services across the nation.
New Delhi, Feb 9 (NationPress) The government announced on Monday that India has climbed four positions in the global ‘Network Readiness Index 2025’ (NRI 2025), now ranking 45th and excelling in various indicators.
This report was published by the Portulans Institute, an independent, non-profit research and educational body located in Washington, DC.
“India has not only advanced its ranking but also enhanced its score from 53.63 out of 100 in 2024 to 54.43 out of 100 in 2025. It is significant that India leads in multiple indicators,” stated the Ministry of Communications.
The report assesses the network readiness landscape of 127 economies based on their performance across four key pillars: Technology, People, Governance, and Impact, utilizing a total of 53 indicators.
According to the findings, India achieved 1st rank in areas such as “Annual investment in telecommunication services”, “AI scientific publications”, “ICT services exports”, and “E-commerce legislation”. It secured 2nd place in “FTTH/Building Internet subscriptions”, “Mobile broadband internet traffic within the country”, and “International Internet bandwidth”, and a 3rd rank in “Domestic market scale” and “Income Inequality”.
The ministry highlighted that India now exhibits greater network readiness than what is typically anticipated based on its income level. The nation ranks second in the cohort of lower-middle-income countries.
Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia remarked that India boasts the world’s lowest data costs alongside the highest data usage, thanks to its strong digital infrastructure. With over 1.2 billion mobile users, the 4G network is projected to reach every village by June this year.
BSNL has established a total of 97,068 4G sites, with 93,511 sites currently operational (as of October 31, 2025). The state-run telecom operator aims to upgrade all 4G towers to 5G within the coming months.
Furthermore, 5G services have been launched in all states and Union Territories (UTs) across the nation, presently available in 99.9% of the districts.
Telecom service providers (TSPs) have installed 508,000 5G Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) across both rural and urban areas.
Point of View
It’s crucial to recognize that India’s advancements in the 'Network Readiness Index' reflect a significant stride towards digital empowerment. This progress not only elevates India's global standing but also promises to enhance connectivity and economic growth. Supporting initiatives that foster technological innovation will be vital moving forward.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Network Readiness Index?
The Network Readiness Index is a comprehensive benchmarking tool that evaluates the readiness of countries in terms of their digital technology infrastructure and its impact on economic and social development.
Who publishes the Network Readiness Index?
The Network Readiness Index is published by the Portulans Institute, a Washington, DC-based independent, non-profit research and educational organization.
How has India's score changed in the NRI 2025?
India's score improved from 53.63 out of 100 in 2024 to 54.43 out of 100 in 2025, marking a significant advancement.
What are the key indicators where India excelled?
India excelled in indicators such as annual investment in telecommunication services, AI scientific publications, ICT services exports, and e-commerce legislation, among others.
What is the significance of India's rank in the NRI?
India's rank signifies its growing network readiness, showcasing its potential to leverage digital technologies for economic development and social progress.
