Why Mobile Data Is Cheaper in India Compared to China and Pakistan: Government Finally Reveals the Reason

India offers some of the cheapest internet and mobile services in the world, with calls and data available at rates far lower than in neighboring countries like China and Pakistan. But what makes this possible? The government has now clarified the reasons behind India’s affordable telecom services.

Government Policies Keep Prices Low
During a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on 18 December 2025, Communications Minister Pemmasani Chandra Shekhar explained that government policies and regulations by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) are the key factors keeping mobile service prices low. According to the minister, the regulatory framework and telecom policies ensure competitive pricing, ultimately benefiting Indian consumers.

India Among the Cheapest Internet Markets Globally
Citing the 2024 data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the minister highlighted that India ranks among the countries offering the lowest mobile service costs. This confirms that both mobile data and call rates in India are much cheaper compared to neighboring countries and several other nations worldwide. Various reports have consistently recognized India as one of the most affordable countries for internet access.

TRAI’s Role and Market Dynamics
Under the TRAI Act of 1997, TRAI is an independent regulator overseeing telecom pricing in India. While telecom companies can largely set their prices based on market conditions, certain services — such as national roaming, rural fixed-line services, and mobile number portability — remain under TRAI’s price regulation.

Communications Minister Shekhar also noted that affordable broadband and mobile data could position India as a global data hub in the next four to five years.

Companies Have Flexibility in Pricing
Telecom companies can design plans based on their business strategies and market competition, considering factors like input costs, regional requirements, and service areas. They can offer various recharge denominations, validity periods, and separate pricing for calls, SMS, and data, providing consumers with a range of affordable options.

With these measures, India continues to maintain its status as one of the most cost-effective markets for mobile and internet services globally, benefiting millions of users nationwide.