Indian telecom operators have been making significant strides in addressing network capacity and coverage challenges across the nation. Their sustained investments and relentless efforts have propelled the country to new heights in mobile connectivity. India’s median mobile download speed, which remained below 30 Mbps just a few years ago, has now reached an impressive 100 Mbps. This milestone places India at the 25th position in Ookla’s global mobile speed index.
Impressive Progress but a Long Way to Go
According to Ookla’s data for November, India’s median mobile download speed stood at 100.78 Mbps. While this is a remarkable achievement, it pales in comparison to the UAE, which tops the chart with a staggering 441.89 Mbps.
India’s achievement, however, is significant given the scale of infrastructure investments needed to deliver a high-quality mobile experience in a country with over a billion users. A median speed of 100 Mbps is comparable to what many fiber broadband users experience, highlighting the progress made in mobile connectivity.
Contributors to India’s 5G Success
- Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel: These operators have been offering free 5G services for the last two years, driving adoption and enhancing the user experience.
- Vi (Vodafone Idea): The telco has been steadily upgrading its 4G networks to provide faster speeds, contributing to the overall improvement.
- BSNL: The state-owned telecom operator is actively rolling out high-speed 4G networks, powered by indigenous technology, with thousands of 4G sites already operational in various parts of the country.
India’s progress in mobile internet speed is a testament to the efforts of its telecom operators, who continue to invest in advanced technologies to bridge the digital divide and improve connectivity for millions.