New Delhi, June 18, 2026: Mobile data consumption in India continues to grow rapidly, with the average smartphone user now consuming around 37 GB of data per month. Industry projections suggest this figure could rise to nearly 70 GB per month over the next five years as digital services and 5G adoption expand across the country.
According to the latest industry estimates, India is expected to become one of the world’s largest 5G markets, with more than 1.1 billion 5G subscriptions projected by the end of 2031. This would represent approximately 81 percent of all mobile subscriptions in the country.
The growth is being driven by increasing availability of affordable 5G-enabled smartphones, wider network coverage, and rising demand for Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) services, which use mobile networks to deliver high-speed internet connectivity to homes and businesses.
India’s expanding 5G ecosystem is also playing a key role in enhancing digital inclusion, supporting innovation, and improving access to online services. As telecom operators continue to strengthen network infrastructure, consumers are expected to benefit from faster internet speeds, lower latency, and improved connectivity.
At the end of 2025, 5G subscriptions had already reached approximately 430 million, accounting for 35 percent of total mobile subscriptions in the country. Meanwhile, 4G subscriptions are expected to decline significantly over the coming years as more users transition to next-generation networks.
Industry forecasts indicate that 4G subscriptions could fall from around 570 million in 2025 to nearly 160 million by 2031, reflecting the ongoing shift toward 5G-powered digital experiences across India.
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