Tele Density and Broadband Density in India: A Study of Interstate And International Comparisons

Abstract

Riding on the advantages unleashed by market-driven strategies of development and the consequent encouragement to the flow of foreign direct investment, the Indian telecom sector is said to have been revolutionized a lot in terms of access and connectivity. Drawing on data compiled from the Department of Telecommunication (DoT), the present study found that India has witnessed a steady and fast increase in tele density and internet density. Wireline access has gone up at the cost of wireless access. Both rural and urban areas have experienced tremendous improvement in tele density and internet density. Still, wide State-wise inequality prevails in respect of tele density and internet access. International comparison also reveals that India has been much behind the developed countries when it comes to the penetration of internet services. It is expected that with 5G becoming a reality, the ‘Amrit Kaal’ will pave the way for accomplishing better improvement in internet connectivity at par with the international level and standard.