Indian telcos' revenue to reach $63 bn by 2026: Ericsson

The revenue of telecom operators in India is likely to reach $63 billion or over Rs 4 lakh crore from traditional services by 2026, a report from Swedish telecom gear maker Ericsson said. Telecom operators also have potential to add another 20 per cent incremental revenue if they diversify their offerings for business segments by using 5G technology, it said. As per official data, the adjusted gross revenue (income from telecom services) of telecom operators was Rs 1,63,604.7 crore for the year ended December 31, 2016.

5G enabled digitisation revenues in India will be $25.9 billion by 2026 and telecom operators can gain half of the total potential by expanding their offerings beyond traditional business.

"The Indian operators can generate additional revenues of $13 billion or half off the stated potential if they take up roles beyond being connectivity and infrastructure providers to become service enablers and service creators. The largest opportunity will be seen in sectors like manufacturing, energy and utilities followed by public safety and health sectors," the report said.