Some 120 crore mobile phones in use in country, main priority to increase 4G network's scope: Scindia

Jyotiraditya Scindia Highlights Mobile Penetration and 4G Expansion Efforts

New Delhi: Union Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announced on Thursday that mobile phone penetration in India has reached an impressive 70-80 percent of the population, with approximately 120 crore devices currently in use.

The government's current priority, Scindia noted, is to expand the 4G network coverage across the country. India has made significant strides by developing a 4G stack with indigenous technology, and efforts are underway to extend this coverage to 100 percent of the population.

In addition to his role in communications, Scindia, who also serves as the Union Minister for the Development of North Eastern Region, will embark on a tour of Assam and Meghalaya starting Friday. During this visit, he plans to formulate a strategic development plan for the northeastern states, taking into account their unique strengths and capabilities. Decisions will be made in consultation with the respective state governments.

When asked about the Centre’s approach to addressing the ethnic strife in Manipur, Scindia chose not to provide a direct response but reiterated his commitment to advancing the development of the northeastern region. He highlighted that it has been decided that at least 10 percent of the Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) from Union government departments will be allocated to the development of the northeastern states.

Scindia was also in Indore to participate in the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, which is crucial for combating climate change. This nationwide initiative, which began on June 5 and will conclude on July 14, aims to plant saplings across the country, with a target of 51 lakh saplings in Indore alone. Scindia emphasized that this campaign seeks to set a world record for tree planting in India.