India A 'Leader In Digital Transformation'; Jumps 11 Positions In This Key Global Index - Details

India has made a remarkable jump in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024, moving up to 49th place, from 60th in 2023. This 11-position rise reflects the country's increasing leadership in digital transformation.  The NRI 2024 evaluates the network readiness of 133 economies based on four key pillars: Technology, People, Governance, and Impact, and uses a wide range of 54 variables to determine rankings. India's improved score of 53.63 highlights its advancements in technology, governance, and infrastructure. 

Key Achievements in NRI 2024

India has earned top ranks in several categories, showcasing its progress:
 

• 1st Rank: AI Scientific Publications, AI Talent, and ICT Services Exports
• 2nd Rank: FTTH (Fiber to the Home) / Building Internet Subscriptions, Mobile Broadband Traffic, International Internet Bandwidth
• 3rd Rank: Domestic Market Scale
• 4th Rank: Annual Investment in Telecommunication Services

India has also ranked 2nd among lower-middle-income countries, cementing its role as a digital leader within its income group.

Government Initiatives Powering Digital Growth

India's rise in the NRI 2024 is closely linked to government efforts that support digital growth. Through various policies, infrastructure programs, and partnerships, India is building a strong foundation for digital progress.
 

Digital India Program

Launched in 2015, Digital India has been a game-changer for internet access and digital services, especially in rural areas.

Broadband Expansion

Internet subscriptions grew from 25.1 crore to 94.4 crore in the past decade.

Digital Literacy

Millions in remote areas have been trained to use digital tools.

Online Government Services

Many public services are now available digitally, enhancing transparency.

BharatNet Project

The BharatNet Project aims to connect India’s 2.5 lakh village councils with high-speed broadband, significantly improving internet access in rural areas and supporting e-governance services like online education and healthcare.

5G and Future Telecom

India’s launch of 5G services in 2022 boosted mobile broadband speed, improving the country's global ranking from 118th to 15th. The 5G Intelligent Village Initiative is empowering rural areas by expanding 5G infrastructure. The Bharat 6G Vision seeks to position India as a leader in 6G technology by developing indigenous solutions.

National Digital Communications Policy (NDCP) 2018

The NDCP 2018 aims to enhance connectivity across India, focusing on providing high-speed internet to all areas and promoting investment in the telecom sector.

PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan

Launched in 2021, the PM Gati Shakti Plan aims to integrate transport and digital infrastructure for seamless connectivity, improving logistics and enabling better digital services.

Artificial Intelligence and Skill Development

India’s growing role in AI is supported by the National AI Strategy, which aims to make India a global leader in AI. The government’s focus on AI for Social Good addresses challenges in healthcare, education, and agriculture. The Skill India initiative is also preparing youth for digital and technical careers, boosting India’s global workforce competitiveness.

It published by Portulans Institute, an independent non-profit research and educational institute based in Washington DC on technology, citizens, governance and impact. India’s improvement in the NRI 2024 rankings reflects the success of government initiatives in driving digital transformation. With continued investments in infrastructure, AI, and digital literacy, India is poised for long-term growth in the global digital economy.