Telecom exports up 72% since FY21, imports steady at ₹51,000 cr: Scindia

Scindia said telecom exports rose from Rs 10,000 crore in FY21 to Rs 18,406 crore in FY25 while imports stayed around Rs 51,000 crore, as satcom licensees complete compliance for security approvals

India’s telecom exports have increased by 72 per cent over the last five years, while imports have remained stable at around the same level, Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia said in response to a question in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.  How have India’s telecom exports and imports moved since FY21?  Scindia said telecom exports rose from Rs 10,000 crore in 2020-21 to Rs 18,406 crore in 2024-25, while imports have remained at around Rs 51,000 crore.  “These figures reflect the story of India’s growing self-reliance in the telecom sector,” the minister said.  What did Scindia say about satellite communications rollout?  On satellite communications, Scindia said India has taken steps to ensure services are made available to customers across the country and that the government’s objective was to offer a full bouquet of telecom services to every customer, enabling individuals to make informed choices based on their needs and preferred price points.  What is the status of the satcom policy and licences?  The minister said the satcom policy framework is in place, with spectrum slated for administrative assignment. He said three licences have already been issued — to Starlink, OneWeb and Reliance.  What remains pending for satcom services to launch?  He added that the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) was finalising the pricing framework. On security clearances from enforcement agencies, operators have been provided sample spectrum for demonstrations, and all three licensees are undertaking required compliance activities.  “Once the operators demonstrate adherence to prescribed security norms — including the requirement to host international gateways within India — the necessary approvals will be granted, enabling the rollout of satcom services to customers,” Scindia said.