Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that investments made by telecom companies under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme have surpassed Rs 2,419 crore, marking a significant achievement. This investment has led to the employment of 17,753 individuals. In October 2022, the government selected 42 companies that pledged a total investment of Rs 4,115 crore. These companies are expected to generate additional sales worth Rs 2.45 lakh crore and employ over 44,000 people within the six-year scheme period, ending in 2025-26.

Speaking at the virtual inauguration of a production line for manufacturing 4G and 5G connectivity modules and data cards for US-based Telit Cinterion by domestic firm VVDN, Vaishnaw expressed pride in the progress made. He highlighted the success of the "Make in India" initiative, emphasising the complexity of the manufacturing processes and the training of young workers in handling advanced machinery.

VVDN, one of the companies selected under the PLI scheme, has contributed significantly to this success. In his address, the minister indirectly criticised critics of the "Make In India" campaign, urging them to visit VVDN plants to witness the depth of progress in telecom and electronics manufacturing in the country.

Vaishnaw pointed out that India had long been dependent on imported telecom equipment. However, due to the ongoing efforts, telecom equipment manufactured in India is now exported to countries like the US, European nations, and Japan, establishing the country as a reliable source for high-quality products. He stressed the importance of maintaining product quality and production consistency.

Furthermore, Vaishnaw highlighted the rapid progress in the implementation of 5G technology, making India the third-largest ecosystem for 5G globally within a year of its launch. He expressed pride in India's contribution to the standardisation of 6G, with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) accepting India's inputs. He affirmed the country's commitment to becoming a leading standard and IT contributor to the global 6G journey in the coming years.

Source: ET Telecom