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Telecom Sector: A Comparison between India and Developed Nations

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  • Dr. Anil

    (PhD (Economics), Jawaharlal Nehru University Deputy Director (Economics), Competition Commission of India Former Assistant Professor, Sri Ram College of Commerce, Delhi University)

Abstract

The world’s total number of subscribers (wire-line plus wireless phones) was 746.14 Crores in 2019[1]. China holds the first position with 191.67 crores subscribers (wire-line plus wireless phones) followed by India with 117.25 crores subscribers (wire-line plus wireless phones). However, ranking of India is completely different when these numbers are adjusted with the population. India is no longer in the leading position, but far behind with other nations. The mobile phone tele density in 2018 was highest in Macao SAR (China) with 345 mobile phones per 100 people. The mobile tele-density of Hong Kong SAR (China) was 270 and was at the second position. Similarly, the mobile Tele-density of United Kingdom, Australia and United States are 118, 114 and 129. However, India’s mobile Tele-density is 87 which is quite low compared to most of the other nations. Despite the second position in total wireless subscribers, low wireless tele density reflects the huge gap between actual and potential subscribers. Hence, this article will make a holistic comparison of Indian telecom sector with developed nations using various parameters of telecom sectors and also explore various possible reasons for the gaps between telecom sectors of India and developed nations.

Suggested Citation

  • Dr. Anil, 2025. "Telecom Sector: A Comparison between India and Developed Nations," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(15), pages 461-470, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:i:15:p:461-470
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    References listed on IDEAS

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