Telcos Need Court Approval for Vodafone Idea-Type AGR Relief, Says Scindia

Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has clarified that telecom operators such as Bharti Airtel and Tata Group units must obtain a directive from the Supreme Court before approaching the government for adjusted gross revenue (AGR)-related relief similar to what Vodafone Idea received, as per The Economic Times report. 

Court Approval a Prerequisite for AGR Relief 

Jyotiraditya Scindia emphasised that only Vodafone Idea received relief based on a specific Supreme Court direction. He stated that airtel and others would need a similar directive before accessing comparable government reassessments.  

Scindia said the government acted on court direction in Vodafone Idea’s case, which allowed it to evaluate the operator’s dues and repayment structure. He added that “every stakeholder has the right to approach the court,” depending on judicial consideration. 

Vodafone Idea's AGR Dues Relief Scheme 

The government had frozen Vodafone Idea’s AGR dues at ₹87,695 crore through an official announcement on December 31, 2025. The payment terms were revised, allowing staggered annual payments for 16 years until 2041.  

As per the arrangement, Vodafone Idea is to pay ₹124 crore per year for 6 years from March 2026 to 2031, followed by ₹100 crore annually for the next 4 years. 

Read More: TRAI Examines Telcos’ Pricing Concerns at Navi Mumbai Airport! 

Stake and Involvement of Government 

Scindia also mentioned that the government currently holds a 49% stake in Vodafone Idea, acquired by converting past statutory dues into equity. There is no current intention to increase this stake beyond 49%. 

Spam and Customer Experience Remain a Focus 

Addressing spam-related concerns, Scindia highlighted that a large part of unsolicited traffic is now moving to over-the-top (OTT) platforms. The Department of Telecommunications and TRAI were directed to study these developments.  

He added that while certain telecom networks already use spam-identification software, the OTT space remains outside direct telecom regulation. However, TRAI may propose regulatory measures. 

Pricing for Satellite Communication Services Pending 

Regarding satellite communication services, the minister noted that final decisions related to pricing would be taken soon. This move is part of broader developments in India's communication infrastructure. 

Conclusion 

Telecom companies looking to access AGR relief must first obtain a legal directive similar to Vodafone Idea's case, according to the communications ministry. Any further action by the government depends on court decisions and is not automatic. 

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