India is poised for an unprecedented digital revolution as the country's 5G subscriber base is projected to reach a staggering 100 crore by 2031, according to recent industry analysis. This massive growth trajectory comes alongside India maintaining its global leadership in mobile data consumption per user.
Record-Breaking Data Consumption
The report highlights that mobile data usage per active smartphone in India currently stands at 36 GB per month, making it the highest globally. This impressive figure demonstrates the Indian population's increasing reliance on digital connectivity for everything from entertainment to education and business.
What's more remarkable is the projected growth in data consumption. Industry experts forecast that monthly data usage will surge to approximately 65 GB per active smartphone by 2031, nearly doubling the current consumption levels as 5G networks become more widespread and accessible.
The 5G Revolution Gains Momentum
The rapid expansion of 5G infrastructure across the country is driving this transformation. Telecom operators have been aggressively rolling out 5G services since their initial launch, and the results are beginning to show in subscriber numbers and usage patterns.
By 2031, India is expected to have 100 crore 5G subscribers, representing a significant portion of the population embracing next-generation connectivity. This growth will fundamentally reshape how Indians interact with technology, enabling advanced applications in healthcare, education, entertainment, and smart cities.
Implications for Digital India
This projected growth carries significant implications for various sectors of the economy. The increased data consumption and 5G adoption will:
- Accelerate digital transformation across industries
- Enable new business models and services
- Boost economic productivity through enhanced connectivity
- Bridge urban-rural digital divides with high-speed internet access
The report, which was highlighted by Gyanendra Keshri on November 20, 2025, underscores India's position as one of the world's fastest-growing digital markets. As infrastructure improves and devices become more affordable, the 5G revolution appears set to transform the nation's digital landscape completely.
