Context:

• The Central Government has released the draft of the National Telecom Policy (NTP) 2025, which will replace the National Digital Communications Policy (NDCP) 2018.

Objective:

• The policy is designed to transform India into a digitally empowered nation and a global leader in telecom technology by 2030.

Background:

• Previous Policies: Telecom policies were announced in 1994, 1999, 2012, and 2018.
• NDCP 2018 focused on Digital India, broadband connectivity, and investment.
• NTP 2025 expands the scope to include emerging technologies like 5G, 6G, AI, IoT, and quantum communication.
• Current Scenario: India ranks 25th globally in mobile internet speed. Regulatory complexity and spectrum pricing remain key challenges.

Key Targets of NTP 2025:

• Investment: Attract ₹1 lakh crore (approx. $12 billion) annually
• Employment: Create 1 million new jobs
• Exports: Double telecom product and service exports

Connectivity Goals:

• 100% 4G coverage, 90% 5G coverage
• Fixed-line broadband in 100 million households
• 1 million public Wi-Fi hotspots

Self-Reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat): Boost local production via the PLI scheme

Innovation: Make India one of the top 10 global hubs in 5G, 6G, AI, IoT, and quantum communication

Technology and Infrastructure Goals:

Network Expansion:

• Tower fiberization to increase from 46% to 80%
• Provide broadband to rural institutions
• Expand satellite communication services (e.g., Starlink, OneWeb, Jio-SES)

Cybersecurity:

• Implement frameworks based on AI and machine learning
• Build infrastructure resilient to quantum and classical cyberattacks

Spectrum Management:

• Optimize spectrum pricing
• Use mid-band and E/V bands
• Allocate spectrum under the Telecommunication Act, 2023

Economic and Social Impact:

• Economic Growth: Double telecom's contribution to GDP
• Digital Inclusion: Boost rural connectivity
• Jobs & Skilling: Create 1 million jobs and focus on re-skilling
• Exports: Increase through PLI-based manufacturing

Comparison with NDCP 2018: