From dial-up to 5G, here’s how India’s 30-year internet revolution looks like

It’s hard to imagine life without the internet now. We video call our family across the country, shop for anything we want without stepping outside, stream our favourite shows whenever we want and find answers to questions in seconds. But a few decades ago, things looked very different. Back then, the internet in India wasn’t just slow, it was rare and expensive. For most people, it was something they had only heard about. What began as a small closed network for a few institutions has now grown into an invisible thread that connects our work, learning, entertainment and even our daily chores.

This year, as India celebrates 78 years of independence, it also marks 30 years since the internet was first opened to the public.

How it all began

The first glimpse of the internet in India came in 1986, when ERNET (Education and Research Network) connected a few technical and educational institutions. It was limited to academics and research. Everything changed on August 15, 1995, when Videsh Sanchar Nigam Limited (VSNL) launched India’s first public internet service. At that time, speeds were under 9.6 kbps, and costs were high. Also, it was mostly used by offices and institutions.

India’s internet journey took a major step in 1998 with the launch of its first private internet service provider, Satyam Infoway. Later, in 2004, the government introduced its first broadband policy, opening the door to faster and more reliable internet.

Also read: Independence Day 2025: How to make GIFs, images and video wishes online via AI tools for free

Mobile internet boom

In the mid-2000s, India’s digital story began to change, mobile internet was catching on, and for the first time, people could explore the web without sitting in front of a computer. When 3G and later 4G arrived, the internet became quicker, smoother and far more accessible. By 2023, India had over 700 million active internet users, among which 400 million were in rural areas.

5G era

Today, India has entered the 5G era, with fast speeds and almost zero lag. What seemed like pure imagination just a few years ago, like cars that drive themselves, AI that feels almost human, is now knocking on our doors.

Three decades ago, the internet in India was a novelty, something few had seen. Now, it is like a stage where we work, learn, shop, play and share our lives.

Ayushi Jain

Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile

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