India’s Electronics Output Soars Sixfold in a Decade, Driven by Mobile Manufacturing Boom
New Delhi: Over the past decade, India has undergone a remarkable transformation in its technology and industrial landscape, with mobile phones emerging as the powerhouse behind its electronics surge, according to a Kuwait Times report.
Once largely dependent on electronic imports, India has now evolved into a global hub for electronics and mobile manufacturing. The country’s electronics output has skyrocketed nearly sixfold — from $21 billion in 2015 to $128 billion in 2025.
This growth has been propelled by strong government initiatives, technological advancements, a skilled workforce, and rising global investor confidence. The sector has also generated around 2.5 million jobs over the last decade, fueling inclusive economic growth.
Flagship schemes such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI), National Policy on Electronics (NPE) 2019, and Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) have attracted major global players while boosting domestic innovation.
Mobile phones have been central to India’s digital revolution. Today, over 85% of Indian households own a smartphone, driven by affordable devices, low-cost internet, and expanding digital infrastructure. Platforms like UPI, DigiLocker, and Aadhaar-enabled services have made digital access seamless — even in remote regions. From farmers using smartphones for market updates to urban users powering e-commerce and startups, digital inclusion has reshaped daily life.
India’s mobile manufacturing growth has been particularly striking. The country’s mobile production value surged from $2 billion in 2014–15 to $62 billion in 2024–25, making India the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer. The manufacturing ecosystem expanded from just two factories in 2014 to over 300, producing roughly 330 million devices annually.
Exports have mirrored this momentum — mobile exports soared 127 times, from $171 million in 2014–15 to $22 billion in 2024–25. Apple alone accounted for nearly half of this, with iPhone exports worth $12.8 billion, underscoring India’s rising global competitiveness.
Overall, electronics exports climbed from $4.3 billion in 2014–15 to $37 billion in 2024–25, making it India’s third-largest export category. The nation has now achieved near self-reliance in mobile production and, notably, became the top smartphone exporter to the US in Q2 of FY 2025–26.
Government programmes such as PLI, SPECS, and ECMS have been instrumental in boosting domestic manufacturing, promoting semiconductor and component production, and reducing import dependence. The National Policy on Electronics 2019 continues to drive design-led innovation and high-value manufacturing for sustained global competitiveness.
The “Made in India” label now commands recognition in markets like the US, UAE, Netherlands, UK, and Italy. Global giants — including Apple, Samsung, and Foxconn — have expanded operations in India, fostering job creation, technology transfer, and a thriving ecosystem.
This electronics and mobile revolution embodies India’s vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) and ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ (developed India by 2047) — showcasing how the nation is cutting import dependence, creating jobs, expanding exports, and positioning itself as a global innovation hub.
Backed by initiatives like Digital India and Make in India, the country’s evolution from an importer to a major exporter of mobile phones underscores its growing confidence and industrial prowess.
Looking ahead, India aims to build a $500 billion electronics manufacturing ecosystem by 2030–31, setting the stage for the next phase of its digital and industrial ascent.
