vodafone idea
The hustle and bustle has intensified again in the telecom sector. After the recent decision of the Supreme Court in the AGR (Adjusted Gross Revenue) case, the government has now taken steps towards providing major relief to Vodafone Idea (VI). The company owes more than ₹83,000 crore and this amount has been a huge headache for it for a long time. The government is now working on a relief package that can help the company stand strong again.
AGR controversy and government’s new strategy
AGR dispute has remained difficult for telecom companies for the last several years. After the latest decision of the Supreme Court, the government has now decided to review the situation again. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has said that it has started taking legal advice to ascertain whether there was any mistake or duplication in the calculation of AGR dues.
According to sources, DoT teams will soon re-examine old bills and demand notices in telecom circles across the country. From this an attempt will be made to understand whether the outstanding amount can be reduced or not.
Can get relief on interest and penalty
The government is not limited to just reviewing the data. Sources said that DoT is also preparing a proposal in which Vodafone Idea can get direct relief on interest and penalty. If this proposal is implemented, there can be a big reduction in the total outstanding on the company. Such relief was also discussed during the Supreme Court hearing so that Vodafone Idea could be saved from bankruptcy.
The proposal will reach the cabinet
The government is planning to present this entire relief package before the Union Cabinet in the coming months. This may include measures like recalculation of AGR, waiver of interest and penalty. According to sources, the government wants this process to be completed soon because the company needs immediate help to raise funds and survive in the market.
Current status of Vodafone Idea
The financial condition of Vodafone Idea has remained weak for the last few years. The company suffered a net loss of ₹ 5,524 crore for the quarter ending September 2025, which is slightly better than ₹ 7,176 crore in the same period last year. According to the company, this improvement has come due to increase in tariff and lower finance cost.