In India, mobile data is no longer just a service but an everyday necessity. From the morning alarm to the last scroll at night—a big part of daily life Internet resting on. Interestingly, for the same facility which is being used extensively in India, consumers in many countries of the world have to pay a heavy price.
According to international comparison, the average cost of a mobile package in the US with 140 minutes of calls, 70 SMS and 2GB data is around $48.95 (approximately Rs 4389). In Britain the same expenditure is more than $12.62 (about Rs 1131) and in Australia it is more than $23.07 (about Rs 2068). In comparison, the same mobile service package in India is available for an average of $1.86 (about Rs 166), which is among the lowest rates globally. This low cost mobile data has emerged as the digital strength of India.
Big difference in prices from neighbors to western countries
If we compare neighboring countries the difference becomes more clear. The average cost of mobile services in China has been recorded at $8.56 (approximately Rs 767), in Nepal $2.72 (approximately Rs 243), in Bangladesh $2.40 (approximately Rs 215) and in Bhutan $4.56 (approximately Rs 408).
In Pakistan this cost is 1.43 dollars (about 143 rupees), which is slightly less than India. However, mobile and internet services in India reach millions of consumers, making the low price impact visible on an unprecedented scale. That means India not only provides cheap internet, but is also among the countries that provide cheap internet on a large scale.
How was this low cost possible?
According to the Central Government, there is no sudden change behind this, but a policy process over years. Tariffs were largely market-based under the government’s telecom policies and the regulatory framework of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). In the current system, telecom companies have the freedom to decide plans like calls, data and validity on the basis of competition. Due to this competition, the rates for consumers kept on decreasing.
Social and economic impact of cheap data
Low-cost internet has not only increased digital consumption in India, but has also given a new shape to social and economic activities. Online education has expanded in rural areas, small merchants are adopting digital payments, startups are developing services for global markets and content creators are reaching international audiences from small towns. While in many countries internet is still considered an expensive monthly expense, in India it has become a part of the daily needs of the common citizen.
Story beyond statistics
International Telecommunication Union (ITU) data confirms India’s low mobile costs. However, the real picture goes beyond the figures. Low prices, huge consumer base and rapid digital adoption have made India one of the largest and most affordable mobile data markets in the world. And perhaps this is the reason why in the global digital discussion, India is now being seen not just as a consumer but as a major market setting digital trends.
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