Summary:
India’s broadband subscriber base continued to grow steadily in March 2026, crossing 1.06 billion, driven by rising digital adoption across both urban and rural areas. Wireless services remained dominant, with overall subscriber numbers and tele-density increasing, while mobile users and 5G fixed wireless access also saw consistent gains. The wireline segment recorded modest growth, largely concentrated in urban regions. High mobile number portability highlighted strong competition among telecom operators, with private players maintaining a significant market lead.
India’s broadband user base continued its upward trajectory in March, surpassing 1.06 billion as internet usage expanded across urban and rural regions, according to government data released on Wednesday. The total number of broadband subscribers increased from 1,059.05 million at the end of February to 1,065.88 million by March-end 2026, indicating consistent growth driven by ongoing digital adoption.
Mobile number portability remained robust during the month, with 14.63 million users opting to change their telecom providers, reflecting intense competition and greater consumer choice. Meanwhile, active wireless subscribers, based on peak visitor location register data, reached 1,185.60 million.
The wireline segment recorded gradual growth, with subscribers rising from 47.99 million in February to 48.25 million in March, marking a monthly increase of 0.53 percent. Wireline tele-density inched up to 3.38 percent, with usage largely concentrated in urban areas, which accounted for over 89 percent of subscribers, while rural regions contributed just above 10 percent. Public sector firms such as BSNL, MTNL, and APSFL together held close to 19 percent of this market.
Wireless services continued to dominate the telecom landscape. The total number of wireless subscribers, including mobile and fixed wireless access users, grew from 1,273.31 million to 1,282.33 million in March, reflecting a 0.71 percent monthly rise. Both urban and rural areas saw growth, with rural regions expanding at a slightly faster pace. Overall wireless tele-density improved to 89.88 percent, with urban tele-density exceeding 143 percent and rural tele-density nearing 60 percent.
Mobile users alone increased from 1,257.29 million to 1,265.73 million during the month, pushing mobile tele-density up to 88.71 percent. Private telecom operators maintained a dominant position in the wireless segment with a market share of over 92 percent, while public sector players accounted for around 7.36 percent.
The 5G fixed wireless access category also witnessed steady progress, with subscriber numbers rising from 11.93 million in February to 12.32 million in March.
