India Shines in Network Readiness Index Report 2025

India has achieved a significant milestone by securing the 45th rank in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2025, marking an improvement of four slots from the previous year. This is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it relates to GS Paper 3, focusing on economic development and technology. Last Updated: 2026-02-10

Key Facts About Network Readiness Index 2025

• India ranks 45th in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2025.
• Improved by four slots from the previous year.
• Report released on February 4, 2026.
• Assesses 127 economies based on four pillars: Technology, People, Governance, and Impact.
• Score increased from 53.63 to 54.43 out of 100.
• India leads in annual investment in telecommunication services.
• Secured 1st rank in AI scientific publications.
• Ranked 1st in ICT services exports.
• Ranked 1st in e-commerce legislation.
• Secured 2nd rank in FTTH subscriptions.
• Ranked 2nd in mobile broadband internet traffic.
• Secured 2nd rank in international internet bandwidth.
• Ranked 3rd in domestic market scale.
• Ranked 3rd in income inequality.
• Ranked 2nd among lower-middle-income countries.
• Exceptional performance relative to income level.

India's Digital Transformation and Global Standing

India's rise in the Network Readiness Index underscores its growing digital capabilities and strategic emphasis on technology-driven growth. This aligns with India's broader economic goals of becoming a global digital hub, enhancing its competitiveness, and fostering inclusive growth. The country's performance in AI publications and ICT services exports highlights its potential to lead in the global digital economy.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Digital India Programme: Aims to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
• BharatNet Project: Provides broadband connectivity to rural areas.
• National AI Strategy: Focuses on leveraging AI for inclusive growth and development.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3: Economic Development, Technology, and Infrastructure.
• Prelims: Questions on India's rank, key indicators, and comparative performance.
• Mains: Analytical themes on digital transformation, economic growth, and technology policy.
• Essay Paper: Topics on digital economy and India's role in global technology leadership.

FAQ Section

• What is the Network Readiness Index? The Network Readiness Index evaluates the digital readiness of countries based on four pillars: Technology, People, Governance, and Impact, covering 127 economies.
• Why is the NRI important for India? The NRI highlights India's progress in digital infrastructure and services, crucial for economic growth and global competitiveness, as evidenced by its improved ranking and scores.
• What are the key features of India's performance in the NRI 2025? India excelled in AI scientific publications, ICT services exports, and e-commerce legislation, securing top ranks in these areas, showcasing its digital prowess.