India Mobile Congress 2026: PM Modi Highlights 5G Milestone and Domestic IP Push
- 5G active across 5.5 lakh base stations
- Covers every district nationwide
- Over ₹50 lakh crore transferred via DBT
- Global framework sought for deepfake safety
India's 5G rollout has crossed 5.5 lakh base stations to reach every district nationwide, transforming mobile connectivity from an elite convenience into universal infrastructure. Inaugurating the 10th edition of the India Mobile Congress at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi placed telecom networks at the absolute center of digital delivery and economic inclusion.
Beyond mobile speeds, digital connectivity has anchored welfare administration, enabling over 50 lakh crore rupees in direct benefit transfers while curbing an estimated 5 lakh crore rupees in leakage. Schemes such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi have deposited more than 4 lakh crore rupees straight into farmer accounts, eliminating administrative friction and travel expenses for rural households.
The surge in connectivity is also reshaping local industry, expanding digital gaming and creator markets to over 50 crore users across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Addressing global telecom leaders and the GSMA Board, Modi called on the sector to transition from consumption to domestic design and IP ownership, while demanding coordinated international frameworks to combat deepfakes and cyber fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
What key network milestone was highlighted at IMC 2026?
India has deployed more than 5.5 lakh 5G base stations, establishing high-speed mobile coverage across every district in the country.
How has mobile infrastructure impacted welfare delivery in India?
Mobile platforms have channeled over ₹50 lakh crore in direct benefit transfers to citizens, preventing an estimated ₹5 lakh crore in leakage.
What cybersecurity measures were emphasized at the summit?
The Prime Minister highlighted phone and network security as essential for user trust, urging an international framework to tackle deepfakes and fraud.
Source
Press Information Bureau Release PRID 2320680, Prime Minister's Office (Release ID: 2320680) · 2026-10-08
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