Bharti Airtel, India’s largest mobile service provider, has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 200 million subscribers, making it the first company in the country to reach this landmark. In an official statement, the telecom giant announced that it has “crossed the 200 million mobile subscriber mark in India, further solidifying its leadership position in the world’s second-largest mobile market.”
Celebrating its 20th year in the telecom industry, Bharti Airtel emerged as the pioneering mobile operator in India to exceed 200 million mobile users. The company obtained its initial permits for mobile telephony in November 1994 and commenced services in 1995. Bharti Airtel holds the top position in India’s telecom sector, leading in both customer base and revenue. Globally, it ranks as the fourth-largest mobile operator by subscribers.
The statement from Airtel highlights that the latest addition of 100 million users occurred in less than five years, with the company having reached the 100 million mark in 2009. As of January, Airtel commanded a significant market share of 28.1%, according to data from the Cellular Operators Association of India. In comparison, Vodafone secured the second position with 162.1 million users and a 23.06% market share.
This achievement underscores Bharti Airtel’s dominant presence in the Indian mobile market and its continuous growth over the years, solidifying its status as a telecom industry leader in the region.