A multitude of fluttering banners on every roundabout in New Delhi welcomed delegates to FICCI’s India Telecom 2012 conference, officially opened on Thursday by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Anne Bouverot participated in a panel session which focused on “Leveraging Telecom for Connecting India” and was chaired by Milind Deora, the Minister of State of Communications and Information Technology. During her speech, Anne underlined that while unique mobile subscribers currently make up just 25% of the population, mobile has the potential to deliver life-changing economic and social benefits for the entire country – if a more favourable and sustainable business environment is put in place.

The week ended with a high-level meeting with CEOs from the major Indian mobile operators. Debate revolved around the financial health of the mobile industry in India and short-term policies versus long-term growth potential. Overall, the week’s interactions were informative and forward-looking, boding well for future activity in the region. Finally, the GSMA India’s future offices at Capitol Point in Connaught Place are right in the heart of Delhi’s business district and located near the TRAI headquarters and government bureaus. With a planned move in the first quarter of 2013, and a number of Wireless Intelligence analysts joining the team, this is a fitting new home for GSMA’s activities in a complex and fascinating market.