Telecom reforms in India: An assessment of policy architecture, outcomes, and political underpinnings

The Indian telecom network is the second-largest in the world after China and the fastest growing network globally. Consequently, India's telecom reforms have engaged the attention of researchers. This policy review traces these reforms and their impact using the sequencing literature. It also examines the political ideologies that shaped relevant policies, the outcomes produced and outlines the outlook for the future. The study contributes to the public versus private debate using the sequencing lens, not used hitherto, to study the reforms and thereby advance relevant literature. The lessons for information technology policy and for public administration and management are also highlighted.