India has achieved a remarkable feat in the global digital arena, climbing four positions to secure the 45th rank in the prestigious Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2025, as announced by the government on Monday. This upward trajectory underscores the nation’s accelerating digital transformation and robust telecommunications infrastructure.
The NRI 2025, released by the Washington DC-based Portulans Institute, evaluates the digital and network preparedness of 127 countries across 53 indicators spanning technology, people, governance, and impact. India’s overall score improved from 53.63 in 2024 to 54.43 in 2025, reflecting sustained progress in key areas.
Notably, India topped the charts in several critical metrics, including annual investment in telecom services, AI-related scientific research publications, exports of IT and communication services, and e-commerce legislation. The country also clinched second place in fiber internet connections, domestic mobile internet usage, and international internet capacity, while ranking third in domestic market size and income inequality adjustments.
The Ministry of Communications highlighted that India’s network readiness surpasses expectations for its income level, placing second among lower-middle-income countries. This positions India as a standout performer in global digital benchmarks.
Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently emphasized India’s unique position with the world’s cheapest data rates and highest consumption. Over 1.2 billion mobile users benefit from a strong digital backbone, with 4G networks projected to cover every village by June.
State-run BSNL has deployed 97,068 4G sites, with 93,511 operational, and plans to upgrade all to 5G soon. Meanwhile, 5G services are live across all states and union territories, reaching 99.9% of districts. Telecom operators have installed 5.08 lakh 5G BTS, fortifying India’s digital prowess.
This NRI ranking signals India’s readiness for a digital future, driven by policy innovation, massive investments, and inclusive connectivity. As the nation pushes boundaries in AI, broadband, and mobile tech, it emerges as a global leader in network readiness.