In charts: Tracking the 30-year journey of a digital India
Signal revolution
Mobile technology has played a pivotal role in making the internet accessible to the remotest corners. From 2G's voice calls and SMS to 3G's mobile internet and apps, 4G's video and cloud services, and now 5G in the era of artificial intelligence, the evolution has been rapid. It has enabled financial inclusion, remote education, telemedicine, micro-entrepreneurship, real-time market information, and faster disaster response.
Expanding access
Internet adoption has surged, crossing a 50% penetration rate three years ago. The country is also catching up with global levels, but remains behind emerging market peers like China. Indians already consume more mobile data than others, and this is set to rise significantly. A basic mobile voice and data package costs around 1% of per capita income, making India one of the cheapest places to go online.
Gaps in the market
In India, young people use the internet widely, but many may also be lost with making full use of it. The gender gap on access and digital skills is stark. Internet access in rural areas is also inadequate. Meanwhile, India also faces the challenge of having an internet duopoly.
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Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
PM Modi's tax overhaul to strain finances but boost image amid US trade tensions
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Time of India
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- Time of India
ITC places bet on premium aromatherapy
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Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Bengaluru man's Rs 78,000 EMI on Rs 1.3 crore flat turns into burden after layoff. Sparks rent vs buy debate online
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