Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Thursday that India’s telecom sector has evolved far beyond basic networks, spectrum, and internet speeds, with mobile connectivity now serving as a cornerstone for good governance and public service delivery.
Addressing the 10th edition of the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026 in New Delhi, the Prime Minister highlighted how mobile phones have transitioned over the past decade from simple communication gadgets into vital instruments of governance.
Key Highlights from PM Modi’s Address
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Expansion of 5G Reach: Recalling milestones from past editions of the IMC—such as the launch of 5G in 2022—PM Modi noted that 5G connectivity has now reached every district across the country.
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Infrastructure Growth: India currently operates over 5.5 lakh 5G base stations, with mobile internet speeds surging to 10 times faster than levels seen in 2022.
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Bridging the Digital Divide: Pointing out that a decade ago new technology was considered a privilege and the digital divide a major hurdle, the Prime Minister emphasized how the Digital India initiative placed the mobile phone at the center of expanding access.
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Lessons from the Pandemic: PM Modi cited the critical role of India’s robust digital ecosystem during the Covid-19 pandemic, noting that it allowed offices, banks, and educational institutions to continue functioning while activities elsewhere came to a standstill.
About IMC 2026
The 10th edition of the India Mobile Congress runs from October 7 to October 10 in the national capital. Organized jointly by the Department of Telecommunications and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), the event showcases global and domestic advancements under the theme “Scale Without Boundaries.”
