Uniformity of rules should be the playbook across sectors. Different rules, whether for telecom players, retail entities or online businesses, would invariably trigger the level-playing questions.
In 2021, the government allowed telcos to convert interest on deferred spectrum payments and AGR dues into equity. This made it the single largest stakeholder in Vodafone Idea.
Govt became shareholder in VI last yr after it approved company’s plans to convert Rs 16,000 cr of interest liability it owed govt into equity. Price of Vodafone stock has risen post FPO.
If successful, FPO is expected to not only increase company’s competitiveness & slow its ongoing loss of market share, but also to significantly reduce risk of a duopoly in the industry.
Centre directed the mobile service provider to convert into equity all the interest related to payments for spectrum and other dues owed to the govt for use of airwaves.
Among the country's three major telecom players, including Bharti Airtel and Jio, the govt package was seen as a bailout for Vodafone Idea, which was on the verge of bankruptcy.
While Adani group bought spectrum in the 26 GHz band, which is not for public networks, Jio acquired the coveted 700 MHz spectrum that can provide 6-10 km of signal range.
Migration in North India isn’t just due to lack of development today. It was shaped by the evolution of labour markets under Sher Shah, Mughals, and the East India Company.
December oil imports from Russia may drop nearly 50%, but Indian buyers already shifting to non-designated Russian entities and opaque trading channels to keep Russian oil flowing.
New Delhi is interested in firming up bilateral agreements for increased trade, mobility, upgrade of Su-30 MKI fighters and the increased range of BrahMos supersonic missiles.
The India-South Africa series-defining fact is the catastrophic decline of Indian red ball cricket where a visiting team can mock us with the 'grovel' word.
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