Broadband in India: Strategic investment opportunities

India is one of the top five mobile communications markets in the world. A wave of structural reforms in the Indian telecommunications industry during the past decade has fueled this growth. Following the introduction of competition, removal of entry barriers, and increasing foreign direct investment, the mobile sector has enjoyed unparalleled success. In contrast, broadband Internet services have not witnessed similar development, and the spread of broadband services in India is slow compared to some of the developing nations in the same region. This paper outlines the success factors (social, economic, and technological) that have contributed to the growth of the mobile communications industry. Based on its success, this paper proposes strategic investment opportunities for service providers, governments, and corporate organizations in the field of broadband services. It also touches on major areas that are outside the telecom arena but contribute to its success. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.