Call on hold

Vodafone Idea's debt conversion should not be delayed

More than a year after the Union Cabinet approved a much-needed relief package for the telecom sector, the government has kept on hold a crucial step that would prevent a duopoly structure in the sector. The government should walk the talk and keep its commitment without any delay to ensure that financially stressed Vodafone Idea — a joint venture between Aditya Birla Group and the UK’s leading telco Vodafone — remains a relevant player in the Indian market.

In the September 2021 Cabinet decision, telcos were offered the option to convert part of their dues into government equity. The