To commemorate a landmark moment in India’s digital evolution, the *Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), in collaboration with the All India Mobile Retailers Association (AIMRA) and the Organised Retailers Association (ORA),* will host a grand event on 31st July 2025 in New Delhi and Kolkata, *celebrating 30 years of mobile telephony in India.

*Shri Praveen Khandelwal, Member of Parliament from Chandni Chowk and Secretary General of CAIT,* recalled that it was on 31st July 1995 when the first-ever mobile call in India was made between the then Union Communications Minister Shri Sukh Ram and West Bengal Chief Minister Shri Jyoti Basu — a defining moment that ushered India into the mobile era.

He emphasized that over the past three decades, and particularly in the last 11 years under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, India has emerged as the second-largest telecom market in the world. The mobile phone has evolved from being a basic communication tool to a transformative force — driving business, education, e-commerce, healthcare, governance, and entertainment and media communications as well.

Delhi Event Highlights:

Shri Khandelwal announced that the New Delhi event will feature a “Mobile History Exhibition” — an immersive walk-through timeline showcasing iconic mobile handsets from 1995 to 2025, from early feature phones to the latest AI-enabled smartphones.

The exhibition will distinctly portray two transformative phases:

• 1995 to 2013 – the foundation years under earlier governments, and

• 2014 to 2025 – the era of rapid digital acceleration under PM Shri Modi.

There will also be a visual showcase of technological breakthroughs, such as the progression from 2G to 5G networks, and mobile-led revolutions in UPI, telemedicine, digital entertainment and in various other sectors.

The display will also highlight the impact of flagship government initiatives like Digital India, BharatNet, Make in India, and Startup India, which have collectively positioned India as a global leader in mobile and digital infrastructure.

In addition, a live curated presentation will demonstrate the mobile phone’s evolution from a mere communication device to a powerful driver of socio-economic empowerment. Key leaders from the telecom, retail, and technology sectors will address the gathering and share valuable insights.

Kolkata — Where It All Began

The first mobile call in India was made in Kolkata, using the Modi Telstra network — a joint venture between India’s Modi Group and Australia’s Telstra — over a 2G GSM system, using a Nokia handset. This historic moment will be symbolically re-enacted in Kolkata during the event, paying tribute to the city that launched India’s mobile journey. Shri Kailash Lakhyani, National Chairman of AIMRA, remarked:

“The mobile phone is the most powerful symbol of India’s digital revolution. Once a luxury, today it is a lifeline for every Indian. This event is a tribute to the transformative power of technology and the lakhs of mobile retailers who brought it to the grassroots.”

He further highlighted the evolution of India’s mobile retail landscape — from small 100 sq. ft. stores to national chains, and from unorganised outlets to structured ecosystems. The contribution of mobile retailers in customer education, digital adoption, and job creation will be showcased through engaging displays and storytelling.

Reaffirming the commitment of both AIMRA and ORA, Shri Lakhyani said this event is not just a celebration, but a reaffirmation of our commitment to empower mobile retailers and support India’s digital ambitions.

With rare exhibits, rich visuals, untold stories, and thought-provoking insights, this unique celebration promises to be a landmark event — an inspiring look back at 30 years of innovation and a powerful glimpse into the mobile-powered future of India.