India Launches Scheme to Grow Domestic Smartphone Brands

Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that the Indian government is supporting three potential domestic smartphone players expected to enter the market within the next 10 to 14 months. To facilitate this growth, the government notified the Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (MPMS), which provides incentives for general mobile phone manufacturing and the development of homegrown Indian brands.

The government has tasked these emerging domestic companies with creating best-in-segment designs tailored for high-volume market segments. To qualify for MPMS incentives, manufacturers must meet specific turnover thresholds for FY26, requiring a minimum of Rs 10,000 crore for manufacturers and Rs 1,000 crore for electronics manufacturing services companies.

In addition to fostering local brands, Vaishnaw stated that Apple Inc. may expand its existing manufacturing operations in India to include products beyond the iPhone.