The market growth of India’s ICT segment projected at CAGR 9.04% comes as no surprise given the move towards a world that is hyper-connected and technologically empowered. Our growing middle class, faster adoption of technology and the evolution of the emerging business ecosystem has helped India’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector establish itself as a key player on the global stage.
In recent years, the widespread adoption of 5G technology has revolutionized the telecommunications sector, ensuring faster and more reliable connectivity across the nation. Initiatives promoting digital payments, coupled with e-governance endeavors, have further propelled India into the digital age. The sector’s evolving performance has not only transformed communication but also played a crucial role in bringing about financial inclusion, empowering businesses, and enhancing the overall quality of life for the citizens. All these factors along with the forecasted growth of the ICT market reflects not only India’s current standing but also its potential to shape the future of technology on the global stage.
So, here are a few developments that will chart the course for India’s ICT in 2024.
Gearing up for 6G: As the world anticipates the rollout of 6G networks, India is actively positioning itself to embrace the next generation of wireless technology. With the promise of ultra-fast data speed of around 100 Gbps, low latency, and enhanced connectivity, the adoption of 6G is expected to revolutionize communication networks, paving the way for new possibilities in areas such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
A KPMG report states that India followed the world in 4G, marched with the world in 5G and now aims to lead the world in 6G. However, to align with the technological advancements, India needs to build necessary infrastructure and continue to invest in research and development activities that facilitate the adoption of 6G technology. According to the report, 6G connectivity will require 100 percent fiberization of towers, that presently stand at 38 percent. Therefore, in order to meet the prescribed target, India must formulate and implement an accelerated plan for the comprehensive fiberization of towers and bring its vision to reality.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and IoT Integration: The integration of Artificial Intelligence into various aspects of business operations is set to accelerate this year. ICT companies are strategically combining AI into their operations, enhancing various facets of their operations, from optimizing workflows to automating tasks. The deployment of AI in customer interactions, seamlessly unifying systems, and predictive analytics helps ICT organizations to provide personalized and industry-specific solutions while adhering to ethical standards, ensuring responsible AI adoption across industries.
Simultaneously, the Internet of Things (IoT) is poised for substantial growth to facilitate seamless communication and enhance connected networks in the evolving ICT landscape. Now, the integration of IoT applications is not limited to smart homes but extends to smart cities and industrial automation too. The seamless connectivity offered by IoT is enhancing efficiency, improving resource management, and driving innovation across diverse sectors.
Cybersecurity Prioritization: With the growing digital footprint, cybersecurity remains a top priority this year. Therefore, India is acknowledging the need to safeguard digital assets, personal data, and essential infrastructure to emphasize on robust cybersecurity measures. Within this landscape, ICT companies are playing a crucial role in advancing cybersecurity initiatives in various sectors. Their proactive stance involves the implementation of cutting-edge technologies, secure networks and single window manageability for advanced threat detection and encryption. Additionally, these companies are engaging with regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance and adherence to security standards, thereby fortifying the Indian digital landscape against evolving cyber threats.
Rise in Data Centres: According to a CBRE South Asia report, India’s data centre capacity is expected to cross 1,300 MW by the end of 2024, marking a significant increase from the current 880 MW. Nearly 500 MW of additional capacity is currently under construction across several cities. A noteworthy trend is the surge in demand for edge data centres across Tier 2 and 3 cities, driven by the increase in data consumption in these regions. This evolving trend presents lucrative opportunities for developers and service providers, emphasizing the need to meet the advancing needs of a digitally connected society.
Rise in Satellite Communications: Satellite communications emerge as a crucial solution in addressing last mile connectivity challenges, particularly in hard-to-reach or remote areas where deploying fiber infrastructure proves commercially unfeasible. Leading ICT players along with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), are actively working to enhance last mile connectivity through satellite communications. The initiative aims to bridge India’s digital divide by extending connectivity to underserved regions. The Indian Space Policy 2023 underscores the government’s commitment, allowing private enterprises to play a more significant role in end-to-end activities, including operating earth stations, thereby propelling efforts to enhance last mile connectivity across the nation.
MSMEs to Register Significant Growth: Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role in driving the nation’s economic growth. Projections indicate that the value of this segment is expected to surge by USD 171.90 billion in the next five years. With the rapid adoption of digital technologies and the government’s initiatives promoting entrepreneurship and digital inclusion, MSMEs in the ICT sector are set to register substantial expansion. These enterprises are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation, propelling them into key players in the ever-evolving landscape of information and communication technology.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
Regulations and policy framework within the ICT sector play a pivotal role in shaping India’s digital landscape. The Telecommunication Act 2023 aims to enhance spectrum allocation flexibility, streamline right-of-way procedures, and facilitate the construction of common ducts and cable corridors.
The enactment of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act emphasizes safeguarding citizens’ privacy in the digital age. In the context of an interconnected global digital economy, this legislation is instrumental in regulating personal data. Furthermore, landmark initiatives such as the Digital India Program and the National Broadband Mission underscore the nation’s transformative journey towards digitalization. The former marks a turning point in leveraging technology for citizen-centric services, while the latter aims to ensure ‘broadband for all’ by addressing gaps and promoting domestic manufacturing.
As we chart the course for India’s ICT sector in 2024, it is evident that the nation stands at the forefront of a digital revolution. As we move forward, collaboration between the public and private sectors, investment in digital infrastructure, and a focus on satellite communication and semiconductors will be key in steering India towards a digitally empowered future.
