From linear to loops: Anchoring India’s digital future to circular telecom economy
Telecommunications today is far more than an enabler of connectivity; it is the vital backbone of digital governance, economic growth and social transformation. As India’s digital footprint expands at a record pace, the transition toward a circular economy is no longer a peripheral environmental goal but a core strategic necessity. This shift is the only way to ensure that our rapid digital growth remains resource-efficient, environmentally sustainable, and resilient against global supply chain shocks. The sheer scale of India’s telecom evolution underscores the urgency of this transition.
Currently contributing approximately 6 per cent to the national GDP, this massive ecosystem supports 1.18 billion subscribers and nearly 870 million broadband users, powered by over 7.7 lakh towers and 35 lakh route kilometres of optical fibre. With 5G already deployed in over 700 districts, the industry’s footprint is set to explode further through network densification and the proliferation
of data centres.
However, this unprecedented expansion brings systemic risks that the traditional “take-make-dispose” linear model cannot sustain. With global consumption projected to triple the Earth’s regenerative capacity by 2050 and India already generating 1.6 million tonnes of e-waste annually, the environmental pressure is mounting. To meet our commitments under the Paris Agreement and the G20 Green Development Pact, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is finalising a dedicated Vision, Strategy, and Action Plan to move toward a system that is restorative
by design. Implementing this circularity requires a holistic approach that begins at the design and manufacturing stage. By prioritising eco-design and modularity, the sector can ensure equipment is built for durability and repairability, directly aligning with “Make in India” objectives. This transition continues through deployment and operations, where the focus shifts to energy optimisation and predictive maintenance to extend the life of hardware like BTS units and servers.
Finally, the cycle must close with end-of-life reintegration, formalising refurbishment and material recovery to prevent the premature disposal of assets and move toward a net-zero waste stream.
The transition is being propelled by three primary levers: policy, industry, and technology. On the policy front, India is adopting a consultative, incentive-driven approach — utilising tools like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and sustainable public procurement — rather than relying solely on punitive regulation. Simultaneously, industry leaders are restructuring supply chains to create a trusted market for refurbished equipment. Serving as the digital orchestrator of this entire shift is technology; AI, IoT and Blockchain are providing the transparency and traceability needed to manage assets throughout their entire lifespan.
Ultimately, circularity is not a single-company optimisation problem but a collaborative ecosystem challenge. The DoT vision emphasises multi-stakeholder partnerships between manufacturers, service providers and startups. Success will require building institutional frameworks to monitor progress and creating formal education pathways to develop the “green” talent necessary for a circular future. This collective effort transforms circularity from a corporate responsibility into a fundamental design principle for the entire industry.
Looking toward Vision-2030 and the broader goal of Viksit Bharat 2047, circular telecom becomes integral to India’s development trajectory. By reducing dependency on critical raw materials and creating new categories of green jobs, we strengthen our long-term economicresilience. If we treat the circular economy as a strategic opportunity rather than a compliance burden, India will not just grow — it will emerge as a global leader in sustainable digital development.
Writer is former Director of TCIL, former Vice Chairman of TEPC and Hon Advisor of BRICS CCI; views are personal
