Telecom Subscribers Cross 1.3 Billion in Oct–Dec 2025 Quarter

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released the “Indian Telecom Services Performance Indicator Report” for the quarter ending 31 December 2025 , highlighting strong growth across telecom, broadband, broadcasting, and financial performance indicators. The report covers key trends from 1 October to 31 December 2025 based on data submitted by service providers.

The total number of telecom subscribers reached 1,306.14 million , registering a 6.28% growth over the previous quarter and a year-on-year increase of 9.77% . Urban subscribers stood at 762.44 million, while rural subscribers were 543.70 million. The overall tele-density increased to 91.74%, with urban tele-density at 148.92% and rural tele-density at 59.63%.

The wireless subscriber base (mobile + FWA) rose to 1,258.77 million , with a quarterly growth of 6.47% . Wireless mobile subscribers alone reached 1,244.20 million . Total wireless data usage during the quarter was recorded at 73,324 PB, reflecting high digital consumption. The monthly Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) for wireless services increased to Rs. 194.57, while Minutes of Usage (MOU) per subscriber per month stood at 1,012 minutes.

The telecom sector reported strong financial performance, with Gross Revenue (GR) at Rs. 1,02,475 crore , Applicable Gross Revenue (ApGR) at Rs. 96,456 crore , and Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) at Rs. 84,270 crore. All three indicators showed quarterly growth. The license fee increased to Rs. 6,733 crore, while pass-through charges declined to Rs. 11,296 crore.

In the internet segment, total subscribers reached 1,028.61 million , of which 1,007.35 million were broadband subscribers . Wireline subscribers increased to 47.37 million , with tele-density rising to 3.33% . Public Wi-Fi hotspots numbered 55,483 , consuming 11,805 TB of data .

In broadcasting, 920 private satellite TV channels are permitted, including 335 pay channels . There are 4 pay DTH operators with an active subscriber base of 50.99 million . The report also notes 385 operational private FM radio channels and 557 community radio stations, with FM advertising revenue rising to Rs. 419.29 crore.

Overall, the report reflects steady growth in connectivity, revenue expansion, and improved service performance across India’s telecom and broadcasting sectors.