India’s Broadband Subscribers Cross 100 Crore Mark

India achieved a major digital milestone in November 2025 as its broadband subscriber base crossed 1 billion (100 crore) users. This landmark reflects the country’s rapid progress in digital connectivity and the success of sustained policy focus on expanding internet access nationwide.

Why in the news?

According to data released by Press Information Bureau (PIB), India had 100.37 crore broadband subscribers by the end of November 2025. This marks the first time the country has crossed the 1 billion subscriber threshold. The achievement places India among the world’s largest digital and connected societies.

Growth Over the Last Decade

The growth in broadband connectivity has been extraordinary over the past ten years.

• November 2015: Broadband subscribers stood at 131.49 million (13.15 crore).
• November 2025: Subscribers increased to 100.37 crore.

This represents a more than six-fold increase in a decade, underscoring India’s fast-paced digital expansion.

Key Drivers Behind the Growth

Several structural and policy factors have driven this surge,

• Affordable mobile data and competitive telecom markets
• Expansion of 4G and 5G networks
• Large scale rollout of optical fiber infrastructure
• Government initiatives under Digital India
• Rising smartphone penetration in rural and semi-urban areas

Together, these factors have made internet access more inclusive and affordable.

Significance of the 100 Crore Milestone

Crossing the 100 crore mark is not just a numerical achievement.

• It reflects deeper socio-economic transformation.
• Strengthens digital governance and service delivery
• Boosts financial inclusion through digital payments
• Enables online education, telemedicine, and e-commerce
• Supports startups, innovation, and the digital economy

Broadband connectivity has become a critical infrastructure for growth.

Key Points At Glance