Nearly 47% of Indians Continue to Remain Offline: GSMA’s Julian Gorman

Why It Matters

The offline majority limits the reach of digital services and undermines India’s goal of becoming a global tech leader, while enterprise‑focused 5G could drive new revenue streams for operators and industries.

Key Takeaways

• 47% of Indians lack mobile broadband, women most affected
• GSMA projects India’s digital economy to reach $1 trillion by 2030
• 5G must evolve from speed to enterprise‑level capabilities
• API economy and private networks are strategic for future growth
• India’s 6G ambitions risk falling behind without closing the 5G gap

Pulse Analysis

India’s digital divide remains stark, with nearly half the population still offline despite aggressive 5G roll‑outs. The gender gap compounds the issue, as women are less likely to access mobile internet, limiting their participation in the burgeoning digital economy. This disconnect threatens the promise of digital sovereignty, where a nation’s economic and security interests hinge on universal connectivity. Policymakers and operators must prioritize inclusive coverage to ensure that the benefits of connectivity reach every demographic, fostering broader social and economic development.

The next phase of telecom growth in India hinges on enterprise adoption rather than consumer speed alone. Vertical industries such as manufacturing, logistics, finance, and healthcare are poised to become early 5G adopters, but they require networks that are programmable, interoperable, and easily integrated via APIs. A thriving API economy will transform networks into platforms, enabling secure functions like identity verification and location services to be consumed at scale. Private network deployments further enhance this shift, offering tailored connectivity that can be monetized across sectors, thereby creating new revenue streams for operators.

While India eyes a leadership role in the upcoming 6G era, the current 5G landscape must first achieve full enterprise utility. Without closing the offline gap and building a robust API and private‑network foundation, the country risks a technology leapfrog that leaves its digital ambitions unrealized. Strategic investments in inclusive infrastructure, gender‑focused digital literacy programs, and regulatory support for open network APIs will be essential to align India’s long‑term vision with on‑the‑ground capabilities, ensuring sustainable growth and global competitiveness.