Vodafone Idea promoters KM Birla, Nick Read say reforms will go a long way in unshackling telecom sector

These reforms will bring alive the digital aspirations of 1.3 billion people and accelerate India’s journey to be a digitally powered economy.” Birla added.

NEW DELHI: Vodafone Idea Limited promoters said that the telecom relief measures announced by the Indian government will ensure “healthy growth” of the industry and will go a long way in unshackling the telecom sector.

“The pathbreaking reforms announced by the government today will go a long way in unshackling the telecom sector. These reforms demonstrate the government’s firm commitment to ensuring healthy growth of the industry.” Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group said in a joint statement.

“These reforms will bring alive the digital aspirations of 1.3 billion people and accelerate India’s journey to be a digitally powered economy.” Birla added.

Out of three telcos, Vodafone Idea needed immediate relief to sustain operations. Vi is reeling under a huge debt of 1.8 lakh crore, out of which a staggering 1.5 lakh crore has to be paid to the government. Deferred spectrum dues stand at Rs 96,270 crore, AGR dues at Rs 58,400 crore, and a bank debt of Rs 23,080 crore. The company has been unable to raise funds to overcome the crisis and is losing its customer base rapidly.

Relief for Vodafone Idea: Cabinet approves 4-year moratorium on telecom dues; changes AGR definitionThe Cabinet on Wednesday announced a telecom relief package including a change in the definition of contentious Adjusted Gross Revenues (AGR), moratorium with interest rates for four years.

Vodafone Idea promoters KM Birla, Nick Read say reforms will go a long way in unshackling telecom sector“We commend the resolve shown by the Government of India, under PM Modi’s Leadership, to find a comprehensive solution that would support a competitive and sustainable telecom sector in India”, said Nick Read, CEO, Vodafone Group.

“Although the sector has struggled for many years, we expect that the Government’sconstructive initiative announced today – along with the continued strong support of theTelecom Minister and Finance Minister – will be the beginning of a new era for India’s Digital ambitions and for VI’s continued contribution to creating an inclusive and sustainable digital society to the benefit of all citizens”, added Nick Read.

https://telecom.economictimes.indiatimes.com/amp/news/vodafone-idea-promoters-km-birla-nick-read-says-telecom-reforms-to-ensure-healthy-growth-of-the-industry/86230660