Idea believes that wireless internet penetration less than 31%, data will be the next big opportunity for operators. Current data expansion phase is similar to the 2006?10 voice expansion phase wherein telecom operators improved coverage and dropped prices to
accommodate a substantial jump in subscribers, leading to revenue growth.
Mobile data offers good growth opportunity for telecom operators, but it will require substantial investments. Idea also highlighted that by FY18, the industry will put ~750,000 3G+4G BTS. Assuming the company maintains ~20% share, it will need to reach ~150,000 3G+4G BTS, rendering sustained investments in FY18 as well an imperative.
