India's wireless market is experiencing unprecedented growth, positioning itself as a global leader in telecommunications. With over 1.15 billion wireless subscribers as of September 2024, the country's rapid digital transformation is fueled by increased smartphone adoption, expansive 5G rollout, and supportive government policies.

5G Revolution and Infrastructure Expansion

The introduction of 5G technology has been a game-changer for India's telecom sector. Projections indicate that India's 5G technology market will soar to USD 159.1 billion by 2030, driven by digital transformation and regulatory support . Telecom giants like Bharti Airtel have entered multi-billion dollar agreements with equipment manufacturers such as Ericsson to enhance 4G and 5G network coverage . Additionally, Indus Towers is investing heavily in infrastructure, planning to add 10,000 new towers over the next three years to meet growing demand .

Surge in Data Consumption

India has witnessed a significant increase in mobile data usage. Between 2018 and 2022, mobile data traffic more than tripled, with average monthly data consumption per user reaching 19.5 GB in 2022 . This surge is attributed to affordable data plans and the proliferation of smartphones, making India one of the largest consumers of mobile data globally.

Government Initiatives and Policy Support

The Indian government's initiatives, such as the National Digital Communications Policy and the National Policy on Electronics, have played a pivotal role in fostering a conducive environment for the telecom sector. These policies aim to boost domestic manufacturing, attract foreign investment, and enhance digital infrastructure across the country .

Emergence of Private Wireless Networks

Enterprises in India are increasingly investing in private wireless networks to support their digital transformation journeys. Nokia reports that India's investment in private wireless networks is expected to reach USD 250 million by 2027, with sectors like manufacturing, utilities, and healthcare leading the adoption .

WPC ETA for Import through Agile Regulatory Framework

To facilitate the import and sale of wireless communication devices, the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has implemented the Equipment Type Approval (ETA) process. This certification is mandatory for devices operating in de-licensed frequency bands. The ETA process has been streamlined through a self-declaration mechanism for most commercial products, including smartphones, laptops, and smartwatches. Importers are required to submit an RF test report, manufacturer authorization, and technical literature. The application can be completed online via the Saral Sanchar portal, with a fee of Rs. 10,000. Once granted, the ETA certificate remains valid for the product's lifetime unless revoked by the WPC .

Conclusion

India's wireless market is on a trajectory of robust growth, underpinned by technological advancements, policy support, and increasing consumer demand. As the country continues to invest in infrastructure and embrace digital innovations, it is poised to become a global leader in the wireless communications landscape.