India now has over 5.5 lakh base stations with speeds 10 times higher
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· IT, AI, semiconductors & computing· Prelims·
Digital infrastructure and 5G expansion: a key GS3 topic for e-governance and digital inclusion.
Why in news
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the expansion of 5G infrastructure at the 10th India Mobile Congress, noting that India now has over 5.5 lakh base stations with speeds 10 times higher than in 2022.
Background
The 10th India Mobile Congress was held in New Delhi from October 7 to 10, 2026. The event was organized by the Department of Telecommunications and the Cellular Operators Association of India.
Facts for Prelims
- FactIndia has over 5.5 lakh base stations with speeds 10 times higher than 2022 levels.
- BodyThe India Mobile Congress is organized by the Department of Telecommunications and the Cellular Operators Association of India.
- FactIndia launched its 5G services in 2022.
Prelims practice question
Which organization, along with the Cellular Operators Association of India, organizes the India Mobile Congress?
- (a)Department of Telecommunications
- (b)Universal Service Obligation Fund
- (c)Telecom Regulatory Authority of India
- (d)Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
Show answer
Answer: (a) Department of Telecommunications — The note states the event is organized by the Department of Telecommunications and the Cellular Operators Association of India.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how the rapid expansion of 5G infrastructure acts as a catalyst for enhancing e-governance and digital inclusion in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Infrastructure gap: Disparity in high-speed base station density between urban hubs and rural hinterlands
- Digital divide: Ensuring affordable access to 5G speeds for marginalized populations to prevent information asymmetry
Keywords: Digital Infrastructure · e-Governance · Telecommunications · 5G Expansion · Digital Inclusion
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.