India Mobile Congress 2026: PM Modi Highlights 5G Revolution, Digital Connectivity and India’s Tech Future

India’s technology and telecom landscape entered another major phase on October 8, 2026, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 10th edition of India Mobile Congress (IMC) at Yashobhoomi in New Delhi.

The four-day event, being held from October 7 to 10, has brought together global technology companies, telecom leaders, startups, policymakers, investors, and innovators. The theme of IMC 2026 is “Scale Without Boundaries," reflecting India’s ambition to take digital technology and connectivity to a larger scale. 

During the inauguration, PM Modi spoke about India’s progress in digital connectivity and highlighted how the country has moved forward from the challenge of the digital divide. He pointed to the growing reach of 5G connectivity and the role of mobile technology in making digital services more accessible to people across the country.

The prime minister also highlighted how digital technology proved important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mobile connectivity and digital platforms helped people continue work, education, and access to essential services even during periods of restrictions.

Another major focus was the way technology is helping government schemes and subsidies reach citizens more efficiently. India’s expanding digital infrastructure has created new ways for people to access public services and participate in the digital economy.

IMC 2026 goes beyond conventional telecom technology. The event is showcasing developments in 5G and 6G, artificial intelligence, next-generation networks, semiconductors, satellite communications, cybersecurity, quantum communication, and electronics manufacturing. This year's event has also expanded into emerging areas such as smart mobility, stadium experiences, industrial robotics, and transport technology. These sectors demonstrate how connectivity is increasingly becoming part of everyday infrastructure rather than remaining limited to smartphones and telecommunications. 

The scale of the event is also significant. IMC 2026 is expected to attract more than 1.5 lakh attendees from over 100 countries, with participation from more than 500 partners and exhibitors, around 600 startups, and 900 thought leaders. The event is also expected to showcase more than 2,000 technology use cases and host over 120 sessions. 

The startup ecosystem is another important part of the event. Through programs such as ASPIRE, emerging technology startups are being provided opportunities to connect with investors, industry leaders, accelerators, and potential partners. The 2026 edition places particular emphasis on deep-tech and frontier technologies.

Ahead of the main event, PM Modi also interacted with members of the GSMA Board, where he emphasized that technology should serve as a tool for inclusive and sustainable development. He also highlighted the need for technology-driven solutions to tackle the growing challenge of cyber fraud. 

The broader message of IMC 2026 is that India’s telecom journey is moving beyond simply increasing connectivity. The focus is increasingly on creating a technology ecosystem that can support economic growth, innovation, public services, industry, and communities.

With 5G becoming increasingly widespread and discussions around 6G, AI, robotics, and satellite connectivity gaining momentum, India Mobile Congress 2026 is positioning India as an important player in the next phase of global digital transformation.

The event's theme, “Scale Without Boundaries,” reflects this ambition: to develop technologies in India, expand their use across the country, and eventually take Indian digital solutions to global markets.