India Mobile Congress 2026: From Cheap Data to 6G Leadership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the India Mobile Congress 2026 at Yashobhoomi in the National Capital on Thursday.

The 10th edition brings together global technology leaders, policymakers, startups, investors, and innovators.

The event highlights India’s progress in digital connectivity and its growing focus on next-generation technologies.

Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia felicitated Prime Minister Modi upon his arrival at the event. Speaking at the session, Scindia highlighted the Prime Minister’s vision of making technology accessible to every village and citizen.

Scindia pointed to the sharp decline in mobile data costs over the past 12 years. According to him, 1 GB of data cost Rs 268 in 2014. Today, the cost has fallen to around Rs 8, making India one of the world's most affordable data markets.

He added that average monthly data usage has also increased significantly. From 0.26 GB per customer in 2014, it has risen around 140 times to 36 GB per individual today. Scindia said lower costs and higher usage have expanded opportunities for Indians to connect, create, and innovate.

India Mobile Congress Showcases 6G and Emerging Technologies

The India Mobile Congress 2026 is showcasing India’s expanding digital and technology ecosystem. The demonstrations at the event cover several emerging technologies and applications.

These include digital platforms, life-saving cell broadcasts, AI leadership, free 6G networks, sovereign clouds, terahertz communication, and integrated sensing and communication.

Scindia also highlighted the progress of the Bharat 6G Alliance. The alliance has 90 institutions involved, along with joint ventures and collaborations with institutions globally. He said the alliance has established 7,700 patents, including 4,400 international patents.

The event is built around four key pillars: Srishti: Building the Future; Samvardhan: Fueling Growth; Sashakt: Expanding Opportunities; and Suraksha: Strengthening Trust. These pillars focus on innovation, next-generation infrastructure, technology-led economic growth, inclusive access, and secure digital ecosystems.

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Telecom, Semiconductors and Robotics Take Center Stage

The India Mobile Congress 2026 will cover nine established anchor sectors. These include 5G and 6G, next-generation AI networks, semiconductors, non-terrestrial networks, cybersecurity, quantum communication, enterprise transformation, circular economy and ESG, and electronics manufacturing.

The event has also expanded its focus to four new areas: smart mobility, stadium experiences, industrial robotics, and transport technology.

The 2026 edition is expected to attract more than 1.5 lakh attendees from over 100 countries. It will include more than 500 partners and exhibitors, over 600 startups, and more than 900 thought leaders.

The event will also feature over 2,000 technology use cases and more than 120 sessions, offering a platform for industry stakeholders to explore opportunities across India’s rapidly evolving digital ecosystem.