2.16Provisions
General
Provisions are recognised when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the said obligation and the amounts of the said obligation can be reliably estimated.
Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditures expected to be required to settle the relevant obligation (if the impact of discounting is significant), using a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to unwinding of interest over passage of time is recognised within finance costs.
The Company is involved in various legal and taxation matters and the matter are in legal course. Management, in consultation with legal, tax and other advisers, assesses the likelihood that a pending claim will succeed. The Company recognises a provision in cases where it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligations arising from such claims.
2.17 Contingencies
A disclosure for a contingent liability is made when there is a possible obligation or a present obligation that may, but probably will not, require an outflow of resources. When there is a possible obligation or a present obligation in respect of which the likelihood of outflow of resources is remote, no provision or disclosure is made. Contingent asset is not recognised and is disclosed only where an inflow of economic benefits are probable.
2.18Revenue recognition
Revenue is recognised upon transfer of control of promised products or services to the customer at the amount of transaction price which the Company has received or expects to receive in exchange of those products or services, net of any taxes / duties, discounts and process waivers. When determining the consideration to which the Company is entitled for providing promised products or services via intermediaries, the Company assesses whether it is primarily responsible for fulfilling the performance obligation and whether it controls the promised service before transfer to customers. To the extent that the intermediary is considered a principal, the consideration to which the Company is entitled is determined to be that received from the intermediary.
Revenue is recognised when, or as, each distinct performance obligation is satisfied. The main categories of revenue and the basis of recognition are as follows:
a. Service revenue
Service revenues mainly pertain to pack subscription for voice, data, messaging, value added services and internet protocol television ('IPTV') services. It also includes revenue from interconnection / roaming charges for usage of the Company's network by other operators for voice, data, messaging and signaling services.
Telecommunication services (comprising voice, data and SMS) are considered to represent a single performance obligation as all are provided over the Company's network and transmitted as data representing a digital signal on the network. The transmission consumes network bandwidth and therefore, irrespective of the nature of the communication, the customer ultimately receives access to the network and the right to consume network bandwidth.
Revenue is recognized upon transfer of control of promised services to the customers. Pack subscription charges are recognized over the subscription pack validity period and where there is no uncertainty as to collection of consideration. Revenues in excess of invoicing are classified as unbilled revenue while invoicing / collection in excess of revenue are classified as deferred revenue / advance from customers.
Revenues from long distance operations comprise of voice services and bandwidth services (including installation), which are recognised on provision of services over the period of respective arrangements.
b. Multiple element arrangements
The Company has entered into certain multiple- element revenue arrangements which involve the delivery or performance of multiple products, services or rights to use assets. At the inception of the arrangement, all the deliverables therein are evaluated to determine whether they represent distinct performance obligations and if so, they are accounted for separately. Total consideration related to the multiple element arrangements is allocated to each performance obligation based on their standalone selling prices. The stand-alone selling prices are determined based on the list prices at which the Company sells equipment and network services separately.
c. Equipment sales
Equipment sales mainly pertain to sale of telecommunication equipment and related accessories for which revenue is recognised when the control of equipment is transferred to the customer, i.e. transferred at a point in time. However, in case of equipment sale forming part of multiple-element revenue arrangements which is not a distinct performance obligation, revenue is recognised over the customer relationship agreement.
d. Interest income
The interest income is recognised using the EIR method. For further details, refer note 2.10.
e. Costs to obtain or fulfill a contract with a customer
The Company incurs certain costs to obtain or fulfill contracts with customers viz. intermediary commission, etc. The Company has estimated that the average customer life derived from customer churn rate is longer than 12 months and, thus, such costs are recognised over the average expected customer life.
f. Dividend income
Dividend income is recognised when the Company's right to receive the payment is established. For futher details, refer note 2.10.
M9Government grants
Grants from the government are recognised where there is a reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and the Company will comply with all attached conditions.
Government grants relating to income are deferred and recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss over the period necessary to match them with the costs that they are intended to compensate.
Government grants relating to the purchase of PPE are included in non-current liabilities as deferred income and are credited to Statement of Profit and Loss on a straight¬ line basis over the expected lives of the related assets.
2.20 Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs consist of interest and other ancillary costs that the Company incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds. The borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of any asset that takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale (qualifying asset) are capitalised. All other borrowing costs are recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss within finance costs in the period in which they are incurred.
2.21 Exceptional items
Exceptional items refer to items of income or expense within the Statement of Profit and Loss from ordinary activities which are non-recurring and are of such size, nature or incidence that their separate disclosure is considered necessary to explain the performance of the Company.
2.22 Dividends paid
Dividend to shareholders is recognised as a liability on the date of approval by the shareholders. However, interim dividend is recorded as a liability on the date of declaration by the Company's Board of Directors.
2.23 Earnings per share ('EPS')
The Company presents the Basic and Diluted EPS.
Basic EPS is computed by dividing the profit for the period attributable to the shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the period.
Diluted EPS is computed by adjusting, the profit for the year attributable to the shareholders and the weighted average number of shares considered for deriving Basic EPS, for the effects of all the shares that could have been issued upon conversion of all dilutive potential shares. The dilutive potential shares are adjusted for the proceeds receivable had the shares been actually issued at fair value. Further, the dilutive potential shares are deemed converted as at beginning of the period, unless issued at a later date during the period.
2.24 Compliance with approved Schemes of Arrangements
All the Schemes of Arrangements, approved by the Competent Authority under the relevant provisions of the Act, have been accounted for in the books of account of the Company in accordance with the Scheme and accounting standards.
3. Key sources of estimation uncertainties and Critical judgements
The estimates and judgements used in the preparation of the said Financial Statements are continuously evaluated by the Company and are based on historical experience and various other assumptions and factors (including expectations of future events), that the Company believes to be reasonable under the existing circumstances. The said estimates and judgements are based on the facts and events, that existed as at the reporting date, or that occurred after that date but provide additional evidence about conditions existing as at the reporting date.
Although the Company regularly assesses these estimates, actual results could differ materially from these estimates - even if the assumptions underlying such estimates were reasonable when made, if these results differ from historical experience or other assumptions do not turn out to be substantially accurate. The changes in estimates are recognised in the Financial Statements in the year in which they become known.
3.1 Key sources of estimation uncertainties
The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying values of assets and liabilities are discussed below:
a. Useful lives of PPE
As described at note 2.7 above, the Company reviews the estimated useful lives of PPE at the end of each reporting period. After considering market conditions, industry practice, technological developments and other factors, the Company determined that the current useful lives of its PPE remain appropriate. However, changes in economic conditions of the markets, competition and technology, among others, are unpredictable and they may significantly impact the useful lives of PPE and therefore the depreciation charges. Refer note 2.7 and 5 for the estimated useful life and carrying value of PPE respectively.
b. Impairment reviews
PPE (including CWIP) and intangible assets with definite lives, are reviewed for impairment, whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying values may not be recoverable. Goodwill and IAUD are tested for impairment, at least annually and whenever circumstances indicate that it may be impaired. For details as to the impairment policy, refer note 2.9. Further, the Company conducts impairment reviews of investments in subsidiaries / associates / joint arrangements whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that their carrying amounts may not be recoverable.
In calculating the value in use, the Company is required to make significant judgements, estimates and assumptions inter-alia concerning the growth in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation ('EBITDA') margins, capita expenditure, long-term growth rates and discount rates to reflect the risks involved. Also, judgement is involved in determining the CGU / grouping of CGUs for allocation of the goodwill.
c. Taxes
Deferred tax assets are recognised for the unused tax losses credits for which there is probability of utilisation against the future taxable profit Significant management judgement is required tc determine the amount of deferred tax assets that can be recognised, based upon the likely timing and the level of future taxable profits, future tax planning strategies and recent business performances and developments.
d. Allowance for impairment of trade receivables
The ECL is mainly based on the ageing of the receivable balances and historical experience. The receivables are assessed on an individual basis or grouped into homogeneous groups and assessed for impairment collectively, depending on their significance. Moreover, trade receivables are written off on a case-to-case basis if deemed not to be collectible on the assessment of the underlying facts and circumstances.
e. Contingent liabilities and provisions
The Company is involved in various legal, tax and regulatory matters, the outcome of which may not be favourable to the Company. Management in consultation with the legal, tax and other advisers assess the likelihood that a pending claim wil succeed. The Company has applied its judgement and has recognised liabilities based on whether additional amounts will be payable and has included contingent liabilities where economic outflows are considered possible but not probable.
3.2 Critical judgements in applying the Company's accounting policies
The critical judgements, which the management has made in the process of applying the Company's accounting policies and have the most significant impact on the amounts recognised in the said Financia Statements, are discussed below:
a. Separating lease and non-lease components
The consideration paid by the Company in telecommunication towers lease contracts include the use of land and passive infrastructure as well as maintenance, security, provision of energy services etc. Therefore, in determining the allocation of consideration between lease and non-lease components, for the additional services that are not separately priced, the Company performs analysis of cost split to arrive at relative stand-alone prices of each of the components. The bifurcation of the consideration paid (excluding energy) between lease versus non-lease component across the Company has been accordingly considered at 60% as lease component on an overall basis.
b. Determining the lease term
Under Ind AS 116, if it is reasonably certain that a lease will be extended / will not be early terminated, the Company is required to estimate the expected lease period which may be different from the contractual tenure. The Company has various tower lease agreements with a right to extend / renew / terminate wherein it considers the nature of the contractual terms and economic factors to determine the lease term. After assessing such factors, the lease liability has been calculated using the remaining lease period until which significant exit penalties are payable.
c. Determining the incremental borrowing rate for lease contracts
The initial recognition of lease liabilities at present value requires the identification of an appropriate discount rate. The Company has determined the incremental borrowing rate based on considerations specific to the leases by taking consideration of the risk free borrowing rates as adjusted for country / Company specific risk premiums (basis the readily available data points).
d. Revenue recognition and presentation
The Company assesses its revenue arrangements in order to determine if it is acting as a principal or as an agent by determining whether it has primary obligation basis pricing latitude and exposure to credit / inventory risks associated with the sale of goods / rendering of services. In the said assessment, both the legal form and substance of the agreement are reviewed to determine each party's role in the transaction.
4. Significant transactions / new developments
i. During the year ended March 31, 2026, the Company has completed first and final Call of H 401.25 per share (including a premium of H 397.50) (the "First and Final Call") on 391,176,994 outstanding partly paid-up equity shares of face value of H 5 each (paid-up of H 1.25 each), amounting to H 156,960 (share capital - H 1,467 and securities premium - H 155,493) issued by the Company on a rights basis, pursuant to the Letter of Offer dated September 22, 2021. Further, in respect of the remaining 1,110,668 partly paid-up equity shares on which first and final call remains unpaid, the Company shall issue reminder notice(s) in due course, in accordance with the applicable laws and subject to necessary approvals of the Board/Committee thereof.
ii. Pursuant to the notification issued by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Code on Wages, 2019, the Code on Social Security, 2020, the Industrial Relations Code, 2020 and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020 (collectively referred to as the "New Labour Codes") became effective from November 21, 2025. The Company has assessed the financial implication of New Labour Codes, which has resulted in increase in provision for gratuity and compensated absences amounting to H 2,099. Considering the impact arising out of enactment of the new legislation is an event of non-recurring nature, the Company has presented this incremental amount as exceptional item. The tax credit on above exceptional item of H 528 is included under tax expense/(credit).
iii. During the year ended March 31, 2026, Network i2i Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company has converted its outstanding loans taken from the Company amounting to USD 600 million into 79,321,658 equity shares of USD 1 each.
iv. During the year ended March 31, 2026, the Company set up a subsidiary Airtel Money Limited. The said subsidiary obtained the license to operate as Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) from Reserve Bank of India on February 13, 2026. The subsidiary will be capitalised with Company contributing 70% and the promoter group via Bharti Enterprises Limited, contributing the remaining 30%.
v. During the year ended March 31, 2025, the Company had entered into a Business Transfer Agreement ('BTA') on February 7, 2025 for transfer of the passive infrastructure business undertaking by way of a slump sale to Indus Towers Limited ('Indus'), a subsidiary of the Company. The transfer of business undertaking completed on March 24, 2025 with receipt of consideration amounting to H 18,288
on March 24, 2025 and H 2,032 was deposited by Indus into Escrow Account as per terms of BTA on provisional basis which was subject to adjustments for reconciliation of site count and category of sites and is to be completed within 4 months from March 24, 2025.
During the year ended March 31 2026, as required under the terms of the BTA, the company has completed the necessary reconciliation and finalized the sales consideration at H 19,210.
vi. During the year ended March 31, 2026, the Company purchased additional stake amounting to H 12,178 in Indus Towers Limited from open market. This resulted in increasing Company's stake in Indus Towers Limited from 50.005% to 51.26%.
vii. During the year ended March 31, 2025, the Company had, in accordance with the terms of the Offering Circular dated January 14, 2020 w.r.t. USD 1,000 million 1.50% Convertible Bonds due 2025 ('FCCBs'), allotted 47,018,242 equity shares of the face value of H 5 each fully paid up, against the conversion request of FCCBs of USD 337.77 million. The Company redeemed the outstanding FCCBs aggregating to USD 0.2 million together with accrued interest thereon, in accordance with the terms and conditions of FCCBs. No FCCBs are outstanding as at March 31, 2025.
viii. During the year ended March 31, 2025, the Company had paid H 251,244 to the DoT towards full prepayment of deferred liabilities pertaining to spectrum acquired in 2012, 2015, 2016, 2021 and 2024.
ix. During the year ended March 31, 2025, the Company had participated in the latest spectrum auction conducted by DoT and has been declared successful bidder for total of 82 MHz spectrum in 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz frequency bands. This entire spectrum bank had been secured for a total consideration of H 58,557 payable over 20 years, for which the allocation had been received upon the payment of the dues as per the demand note received.
x. During the year ended March 31, 2024, the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India pronounced a judgement regarding the tax treatment of adjusted revenue linked Variable License Fee ('VLF') payable to DoT since July 1999 and held that it is capital in nature and not revenue expenditure for the purpose of computation of taxable income. This decision does not alter the total amount of VLF allowed as deduction over the license period but creates a timing difference wherein later years would have a higher deduction. This had resulted in an additional tax provision of H 1,209 primarily due to change in effective tax rate on account of adoption of new tax regime. The interest charge of H 9,713 on the above matter
was presented as an exceptional item. The above financial assessment was based on the Company's best estimate.
During the year ended March 31, 2025, the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India passed a judgement waiving off the interest levy on adjusted revenue linked VLF payable to DoT arising from October, 2023 given the matter for sub-judice. The Company had reversed interest charge aggregating to H 9,887, as an exceptional item.
xi. During the year ended March 31, 2025, the transaction between Bharti Airtel Limited, Dialog Axiata PLC ('Dialog') and Axiata Group, Berhad for the share swap of Bharti Airtel Lanka (Private) Limited ('Airtel Lanka') with Dialog had been consummated. Upon completion of the transaction, Dialog holds 100% shareholding of Airtel Lanka and Bharti Airtel Limited holds 10.355% shareholding of Dialog. Investment in Dialog had been irrevocably treated as investment held at fair value through other comprehensive income as the Company considers this investment to be strategic in nature.
xii. During the year ended March 31, 2025, the Company had sold certain digital assets for H 6,179 comprising of Hardware and software's ('specified assets') with a view to consolidate the digital offering under one entity being Xtelify Limited (a subsidiary of the Company) having net carrying of H 6,063. Difference between sales consideration (net of tax) and carrying value was recognised in common control reserve amounting to H 84.
xiii. During the year ended March 31, 2025, Bharti Hexacom Limited, a subsidiary of the Company, completed its Initial Public Offering comprising of an offer for sale by Telecommunications Consultants India Limited (selling shareholder) of 75,000,000 equity shares of H 5 each at a premium of H 565 per share aggregating to H 42,750. The equity shares were listed and started trading on BSE Limited and National Stock Exchange of India Limited with effect from April 12, 2024.
xiv. During the year ended March 31, 2025, Bharti Airtel Services Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company had converted its outstanding loans taken from the Company amounting to H 13,105 into 320,449 equity shares amounting to H 6,500 and 325,369 optionally convertible debentures amounting to H 6,605.
xv. During the year ended March 31, 2025, OneWeb India Communications Limited ("OneWeb"), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company had issued 27,066,923 equity shares to OneWeb Holdings Limited ("Investor") on preferential allotment basis. Upon completion of the transaction, Investor holds 74% shareholding of OneWeb and the Company holds 26% shareholding of OneWeb. Investment in OneWeb has been treated as Investment in associate.
xvi. Consequent to the change in composition of Board of Directors of Indus Towers Limited ('Indus') with effect from closure of business hours on November 18, 2024, Indus is controlled by the Company in terms of section 2(27) of the Companies Act, 2013 and Ind AS 110, 'Consolidated Financial Statements'. Accordingly, classification of Indus investment has changed from Joint Venture to Subsidiary. Additionally, the impairment recognized in earlier periods has been reassessed and reversed. The same was recognized as a reversal in exceptional item.
xvii. During the year ended March 31, 2025, the Company had transferred its 69.94% equity stake in Airtel Payments Bank Limited, an associate of the Company to Airtel Limited, a subsidiary of the Company, against a consideration of H 86,654. Airtel Limited discharged the consideration through issuance of 0.01% optionally convertible debentures. The transaction was recorded as a common control transaction and the difference between consideration received and the carrying value of investment transferred, amounting to H 69,400 was recognised in common control reserve.
xviii. During the year ended March 31, 2025, the Company had transferred its Internet of Things ('IOT') undertaking to Xtelify Limited, a subsidiary of the Company, under slump sale arrangement on going concern basis. The transfer was completed on February 28, 2025 against a consideration of H 102,260. Xtelify Limited had discharged the consideration through issuance of 0.01% optionally convertible debentures. The transaction was recorded as a common control transaction and the difference between consideration received and the carrying value of net assets transferred, amounting to H 100,420 was recognised in common control reserve.
b. Rights, preferences and restrictions attached to Shares
The Company has only one class of equity shares having par value of H 5 each. The holder of the equity share is entitled to dividend right and voting right in the same proportion as the capital paid-up on such equity share bears to the total paid-up equity share capital of the Company. The declaration of dividend by the Company is associated with the fulfilment of interest obligation, if any, on the perpetual securities issued by one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries. In the event of liquidation of the Company, the holders of equity shares will be entitled to receive the remaining assets of the Company, after distribution of all preferential amounts, in proportion to the number of equity shares held by the shareholders.
c. Terms of conversion / redemption of FCCBs
The Company had outstanding FCCBs of USD 337.97 million as of March 31, 2024, bearing coupon rate of 1.50% issued at par, listed on the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited. As per Offering Circular issued by the Company, FCCBs are convertible into Company's fully paid-up equity shares of H 5 each at initial conversion price (as adjusted from time to time), at any time on or after February 27, 2020 and up to the close of business on February 7, 2025, at the option of the FCCB holders. The conversion price was subject to adjustment w.r.t events as mentioned in Offering Circular, but cannot be below the floor price which is H 452.09. All the FCCBs were converted except for USD 0.2 million, which were redeemed at 102.66% of their principal amount during the year ended March 31, 2025.
d. Details of shareholders (as per the register of shareholders) holding more than 5% shares in the Company
f. Aggregate number of shares issued for consideration other than cash during the period of five years immediately preceding the reporting date:
• During the year ended March 31, 2025, 47,018,242 equity shares of H 5 each were issued to the FCCB holders pursuant to option exercised in accordance with Offering Circular (refer note 4 (vii)).
• During the year ended March 31, 2024, 79,952,427 equity shares of H 5 each were issued to the FCCB holders pursuant to option exercised in accordance with Offering Circular (refer note 4 (vii)).
• During the year ended March 31, 2023, 11,930,543 equity shares of H 5 each were issued to the FCCB holders pursuant to option exercised in accordance with Offering Circular.
• During the year ended March 31, 2021, 36,469,913 equity shares of H 5 each were issued on preferential basis to Lion Meadow Investment Limited, an affiliate to Warburg Pincus LLC as partial consideration for acquisition of equity shares of Bharti Telemedia Limited.
g. Shares held by Bharti Airtel Welfare Trust against employee share-based payment plans (face value : J5 each)
16. Reserves and surplus
a) Retained earnings: Retained earnings represent the amount of accumulated earnings of the Company, re-measurement differences on defined benefits plans, gains / (losses) on common control transactions and any transfer from general reserve.
b) Securities premium: Securities premium is used to record the premium on issue of equity shares. The same is utilised in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
c) General reserve: The Company had transferred a portion of its profit before declaring dividend in respective prior years to general reserve, as stipulated under the erstwhile Companies Act, 1956. Mandatory transfer to general reserve is not required under the Act.
Further, on exercise of the stock options, the difference between the consideration (i.e. the exercise price and the related amount of share-based payment reserve) and the cost (viz. related amount of loan provided to Bharti Airtel Welfare Trust) of the corresponding stock options, is transferred to general reserve.
d) Share-based payment reserve: The Share based payment reserve is used to record the fair value of equity-settled share based payment transactions with employees.
e) Capital reserve: It pertains to capital reserve acquired pursuant to the scheme of arrangements accounted under pooling of interest method and excess of fair value of net assets acquired over consideration paid in a business combination. This reserve is not available for distribution as dividend.
f) FVTOCI reserve: The Company has elected to recognise changes in the fair value of a certain investment in equity securities in OCI. These changes are accumulated within the FVTOCI reserve within equity.
g) Equity component of FCCBs: The equity component is the residual amount after deducting the fair value of the financial liability component from the net proceeds of the FCCBs.
h) Common control reserve: The transaction arising out of transfer of investments between entities that are under common control are accounted at their carrying amounts. The difference between the consideration paid and the carrying amount is recorded in common control reserve. The common control reserve will be transferred to retained earnings when the underlying investment is sold to a third party (entity outside the scope of common control).
The category wise detail of major contingent liabilities has been given below:-
a) Sales Tax, Service Tax and GST
The claims for sales tax comprised of cases relating to the appropriateness of declarations made by the Company under relevant sales tax legislations, which were primarily procedural in nature and the applicable sales tax on disposals of certain property and equipment items, ITC eligibility and VAT on value added services. Pending final decisions, the Company has deposited amounts under protest with statutory authorities for certain cases.
The service tax demands relate to levy of service tax on SMS termination and Cenvat credit disallowed for procedural lapses.
The GST demand pertains to disallowance of ITC availed by the transitional credit, miscellaneous interest, differences between ITC claimed and as availed over portal.
b) Income Tax demand
Income tax demands mainly include the appeals filed by the Company before various appellate authorities against the disallowance by income tax authorities of certain expenses being claimed. During the year, the Company has reassessed the existing possible obligations and accordingly disclosed for such amounts.
c) Customs Duty
There are certain demands related to non¬ submission of export obligation discharge certificate, classification issue, valuation of goods imported and levy of anti-dumping duty on certain products.
d) Entry Tax
In certain states, an entry tax is levied on receipt of material from outside the state. This position has been challenged by the Company in the respective states, on the grounds that the specific entry tax is ultra vires the Constitution. Classification issues have also been raised, whereby, in view of the Company, the material proposed to be taxed is not covered under the specific category.
During the year ended March 31, 2017, the Hon'ble Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of entry tax levied by few States. However, the Hon'ble Supreme Court did not conclude certain aspects such as whether the levy of entry tax in States is
discriminatory etc. and such question was left open
for the respective jurisdictional High Courts.
e) DoT demands / assessments includes
i. DoT had enhanced the microwave rates by introducing slab-wise rates based on the number of carriers vide circulars issued in 2006 and 2008 from erstwhile basis being allocated frequency. The Company had challenged the matter in Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal ('TDSAT') and it has set aside the respective circulars of DoT vide its Judgement dated April 22, 2010. Thereafter, DoT has challenged the order of TDSAT before the Hon'ble Supreme Court, which is pending for adjudication. An amount of H 28,862 which pertains to pre-migration to Unified License ('UL') i.e Unified Access Service License ('UASL') is disclosed as contingent liability as of March 31, 2026.
ii. In 2013, DoT introduced UL Regime and notified guidelines which mandates migration to new UL regime upon expiry of existing licenses. Accordingly, the Company migrated to UL regime in 2014. The Company and Internet Service Provider ('ISP') Association challenged the Guidelines and provisions of UL on the ground that DoT has discriminated amongst ISP Licensees in violation of principle of level playing field amongst ISPs. TDSAT stayed the payment of license fee on revenue from Pure Internet Service. In October 2019, TDSAT delivered its judgement in the ISP Association case (ISPAI Judgement) and set aside the provision to pay license fee on the revenue from pure internet service under UL. TDSAT, following ISPAI judgement, allowed the petition filed by the Company and set aside the demand notices.
DoT has filed appeal against ISPAI judgement before Hon'ble Supreme Court. On January 5, 2021, the Hon'ble Supreme Court admitted DoT's appeal and also allowed the Company's intervention application, with a direction that DoT shall not be required to refund any amounts pursuant to TDSAT judgement and parties shall be bound by the final directions as may be passed by the Hon'ble Supreme Court.
On March 31, 2021, DoT issued amendment to the ISP Licenses granted under the old regime i.e. under 2002 and 2007 with immediate effect
(April 1, 2021). Amongst others, DoT included the revenue from pure internet services in the AGR for the purposes of license fees in such contracts (which was earlier allowed as permissible deduction under old regime). Accordingly, demand up to March 31, 2021 has been assessed to be a contingent liability (March 31, 2026: H 48,619 and March 31, 2025: H 42,424).
iii. Demands for the contentious matters in respect of subscriber verification norms and regulations including validity of certain documents allowed as proof of address / identity. TDSAT and High Courts have granted interim reliefs to the Company and the matters are pending for adjudication.
iv. Penalty for alleged failure to meet certain procedural requirements for EMF radiation self-certification compliance.
v. Additional demand received for the period already covered by the AGR judgement which mainly pertains to spectrum usage charges.
The matters stated above are being contested by the Company and based on legal advice, the Company believes that it has complied with all license related regulations and does not expect any financial impact due to these matters.
In addition to the amounts disclosed in the table
above, the contingent liability on DoT matters
includes the following:
1) The Company had received SUC demands from DoT in which DoT had added an incremental 0.5% to the Weighted Average Rate Method for calculation of SUC instead of applying this increment only on the SUC rate for the bands shared with Tata, contrary to DoT's own Sharing Guidelines. The Company challenged these demands before the TDSAT in 2024 which was allowed in the Company's favour by Judgment dated 30 May 2025. DoT has filed an appeal before the Supreme Court in January 2026, which the Company will oppose.
2) In respect of levy of one time spectrum charge ('OTSC'), the DoT has raised demand on the Company in January 2013. The Company challenged the OTSC demand and the High Court of Bombay vide its order dated January 28, 2013 stayed enforcement of the demand and directed DoT not to take any coercive action. The DoT has filed its reply and this matter is currently pending before High Court of Bombay. The DoT had issued revised demands on the Company
aggregating H 79,403 in June 2018, including a retrospective charge and a prospective charge till the expiry of the initial terms of the respective licenses. The said revised demand has subsequently also been brought within the ambit of the earlier order of no coercive action by the High Court of Bombay. The Company intends to continue to pursue its legal remedies.
Further, in a similar matter on a petition filed by another telecom service provider, the TDSAT, vide its judgement dated July 4, 2019, has set aside the DoT order for levy of OTSC with retrospective effect. Accordingly, as per the said order of the TDSAT; DoT can levy OTSC on the Spectrum beyond 6.2 MHz allotted after July 1, 2008, only from the date of allotment of such spectrum and in case of Spectrum beyond 6.2 MHz allotted before July 1, 2008, only prospectively i.e. w.e.f. January 1, 2013.
Further, demand for OTSC on spectrum allotted beyond start-up and up-to the limit of 6.2 MHz has been set aside. The TDSAT has asked DoT to issue revise demands, if any, in terms of the above directions. The said telecom service provider filed an appeal before the Hon'ble Supreme Court against the judgement passed by TDSAT. On March 16, 2020, the Hon'ble Supreme Court dismissed the appeal of the telecom service provider and did not interfere with the TDSAT judgement. Thereafter, the telecom service provider had filed a review petition against the judgement dated March 16, 2020. The Hon'ble Supreme Court allowed the review petition and restored the telecom service providers' appeal. The matter is pending adjudication before the Hon'ble Supreme Court.
DoT's appeal against the said TDSAT Order for the levy on Spectrum below 6.2 MHz is pending. The Hon'ble Supreme Court vide order dated August 21, 2020, stayed the TDSAT judgement July 4, 2019 in a case of another telecom service provider. The Hon'ble Supreme Court, vide order dated December 7, 2020, directed status quo to be maintained in case of another telecom service provider.
On account of prudence, out of the total demands of H 79,403, the Company had recorded a charge of H 17,914 during the year ended March 31, 2020 and interest thereon till March 31, 2026 amounting H 120,299. Balance demand of H 61,489 (without interest) has continued to be contingent liability.
3) DoT had issued notices to the Company (as well as other telecom service providers) to stop provision of 3G services to its customers (under 3G Intra Circle Roaming ('ICR') arrangements executed with other service providers) in such service areas where the service provider has not been allocated 3G spectrum and levied a penalty of H 3,500 on the Company. The Company contested the notices before TDSAT, which in 2014 held 3G ICR arrangements between service providers to be competent and compliant to the licensing conditions and quashed the notice imposing penalty. The DoT has challenged the order of TDSAT before the Hon'ble Supreme Court which is yet to be listed for hearing.
Considering the nature of above disputes / litigations, it is difficult to reliably ascertain the amount or timing of outflow on settlement.
Guarantees:
Corporate guarantees outstanding as of March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025 amounting to H 71,067 and H 64,291 respectively have been issued by Company on behalf of its subsidiaries. These guarantees primarily relate to loans and bonds taken by these subsidiaries from banks and financial institutions amounting to H 44,966 and H 40,656 as of March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025 respectively.
(II) Commitments
Capital commitments
The Company has contractual commitments towards capital expenditure (net of related advances) of H 127,914 and H 130,971 as of March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025 respectively.
The Company has entered into non-cancellable lease arrangements to provide dark fiber on IRU basis and tower assets on site¬ sharing basis. Due to the nature of these transactions, it is not possible to compute gross carrying amount, depreciation for the year and accumulated depreciation of the asset given on operating lease as of March 31, 2026 and March 31, 2025 and accordingly, the related disclosures are not provided.
36. Financial and Capital risk 1. Financial risk
The business activities of the Company expose it to a variety of financial risks, namely market risks (that is, foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk and price risk), credit risk and liquidity risk. The Company's risk management strategies focus on the unpredictability of these elements and seek to minimise the potential adverse effects on its financial performance. Further, the Company uses certain derivative financial instruments to mitigate some of these risk exposures (as discussed below in this note).
The financial risk management for the Company is driven by the Company's senior management ('CSM'), in close co¬ ordination with the operating entities' internal / external experts subject to necessary supervision. The Company does not undertake any speculative transactions either through derivatives or otherwise. The CSM is accountable to the Board of Directors and Audit Committee. They ensure that the Company's financial risk-taking activities are governed by appropriate financial risk governance framework, policies and procedures. The senior management / Board of Directors of the respective operating entities periodically reviews the exposures to financial risks, the measures taken for risk mitigation and the results thereof.
i. Foreign currency risk
Foreign exchange risk arises on all recognised monetary assets and liabilities and any highly probable forecasted transactions, which are denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the Company. The Company has foreign currency trade payables, trade receivables and borrowings. However, foreign exchange exposure mainly arises from borrowings and trade payables denominated in foreign currencies.
The foreign exchange risk management policy of the Company requires it to manage the foreign exchange risk by transacting as far as possible in the functional currency. Moreover, the Company monitors the movements in currencies in which the borrowings / capex vendors are payable and manage any related foreign exchange risk, which inter-alia include entering into foreign exchange derivative contracts - as considered appropriate and whenever necessary. For further details as to foreign currency borrowings, refer note 17. Further, for the details as to the fair value of various outstanding derivative financial instruments, refer note 37.
ii. Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. The Company's exposure to the risk of changes in market interest rates relates primarily to the Company's interest bearing debt obligations with floating interest rates. However, the short-term borrowings of the Company do not have a significant fair value or cash flow interest rate risk due to their short tenure. Accordingly, the components of the debt portfolio are determined by the CSM in a manner which enables the Company to achieve an optimum debt-mix basis its overall objectives and future market expectations. The Company monitors the interest rate movement and manages the interest rate risk based on its risk management policies, which inter-alia may include entering into interest swaps contracts as considered appropriate and whenever necessary. The company also maintains a portfolio mix of floating and fixed rate debt.
The sensitivity disclosed in the above table is mainly attributable to foreign exchange gains / (losses) on translation of USD denominated borrowings, derivative financial instruments, trade payables and trade receivables as at the reporting date.
The above sensitivity analysis is based on a reasonably possible change in the underlying foreign currency against the respective functional currency while assuming all other variables to be constant.
Based on the movements in the foreign exchange rates historically and the prevailing market conditions as at the reporting date, the Company's management has concluded that the above mentioned rates used for sensitivity are reasonable benchmarks.
The sensitivity disclosed in the above table is attributable to floating-interest rate borrowings.
The above sensitivity analysis is based on a reasonably possible change in the underlying interest rate of the Company's borrowings in INR, USD (being the significant currencies in which it has borrowed funds), while assuming all other variables (in particular foreign currency rates) to be constant as at the reporting date.
Based on the movements in the interest rates historically and the prevailing market conditions as at the reporting date, the Company's management has concluded that the above mentioned rates used for sensitivity are reasonable benchmarks.
iii. Price risk
The Company invests its surplus funds in various mutual funds (debt fund, equity fund, liquid schemes and income funds etc.), short term debt funds, government securities and fixed deposits. In order to manage its price risk arising from investments, the Company diversifies its portfolio in accordance with the limits set by the risk management policies. The Company has exposure across mutual fund and money market instruments.
Due to the very short tenure of money market instruments and the underlying portfolio in liquid schemes, these do not pose any significant price risk.
iv. Credit risk
Credit risk refers to the risk of default on its obligation by the counter-party, the risk of deterioration of credit-worthiness of the counter-party as well as concentration risks of financial assets and thereby exposing the Company to potential financial losses.
The Company is exposed to credit risk mainly with respect to trade receivables, investment in bank deposits, debt securities, mutual funds and derivative financial instruments.
Trade receivables
The Trade receivables of the Company are typically non-interest bearing unsecured and derived from sales made to a large number of independent customers. As the customer base is widely distributed both economically and geographically, there is no concentration of credit risk.
As there is no independent credit rating of the customers available with the Company, the management reviews the credit-worthiness of its customers based on their financial position, past experience and other factors.
Credit risk related to the trade receivables is managed / mitigated by each business unit, basis the Company's established policy and procedures, by setting appropriate payment terms and credit period and by setting and monitoring internal limits on exposure to individual customers. The credit period provided by the Company to its customers generally ranges from 14-30 days except Airtel business segment wherein it ranges from 7-90 days.
The Company uses a provision matrix to measure the ECL of trade receivables, which comprise a very large numbers of small balances. Refer note 13 for details on the impairment of trade receivables.
Based on the industry practices and the business environment in which the entity operates, management considers that the trade receivables are impaired if the payments are more than 90 / 120 days past due from due date / invoice date.
The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers' financial condition and monitors the credit¬ worthiness of its customers to which it grants credit in its ordinary course of business. The gross carrying amount of a financial asset is written off (either partially or in full) to the extent that there is no realistic prospect of recovery. This is generally the case when the Company determines that the debtor does not have assets or sources of income that could generate sufficient cash flows to repay the amount due. Where the financial asset has been written-off, the Company continues to engage in enforcement activity to attempt to recover the receivable due. Where recoveries are made, these are recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss.
Financial instruments and cash deposits
The Company's treasury, in accordance with the board approved policy, maintains its cash and cash equivalents, deposits and investment in mutual funds & debt securities and enters into derivative financial instruments - with banks, financial and other institutions, having good reputation and past track record and high credit rating. Similarly, counter¬ parties of the Company's other receivables carry either no or very minimal credit risk. Further, the Company reviews the credit-worthiness of the counter-parties (on the basis of its ratings, credit spreads and financial strength) of all the above assets on an ongoing basis and if required, takes necessary mitigation measures.
v. Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they become due. Accordingly, as a prudent liquidity risk management measure, the Company closely monitors its liquidity position and deploys a robust cash management system. It maintains adequate sources of financing including bilateral loans, debt and overdraft from both domestic and international banks at an optimised cost. It also enjoys strong access to domestic and international capital markets across debt and equity.
Moreover, the CSM regularly monitors the rolling forecasts of the entity's liquidity reserve (comprising of the amount of available un-drawn credit facilities and cash and cash equivalents) and the related requirements, to ensure they have sufficient cash on an on-going basis to meet operational needs while maintaining sufficient headroom at all times on its available un-drawn committed credit facilities, so that there is no breach of borrowing limits or relevant covenants on any of its borrowings. For details as to the borrowings, refer note 17.
Based on past performance and current expectations, the Company believes that the cash and cash equivalents, cash generated from operations and available un-drawn credit facilities, will satisfy its working capital needs, capital expenditure, investment requirements, commitments and other liquidity requirements associated with its existing operations, through at least the next twelve months.
*It includes contractual interest payment based on interest rate prevailing at the end of the reporting period over the tenor of the borrowings.
#Interest accrued has been included in interest bearing borrowings and excluded from other financial liabilities.
AIncludes fixed rate and floating rate borrowings.
The Company from time to time in its usual course of business guarantees certain indebtedness of its subsidiaries. The outflow in respect of these guarantees arises only on any default / non-performance of the subsidiary with respect to the guaranteed debt / advance. Such loans are due for re-payment between 2 to 25 years from the reporting date (refer note 22).
2. Capital risk
The Company's objective while managing capital is to safeguard its ability to continue as a going concern (so that it is enabled to provide returns and create value for its shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders), support business stability and growth, ensure adherence to the covenants and restrictions imposed by lenders and / or relevant laws and regulations and maintain an optimal and efficient capital structure so as to reduce the cost of capital. However, the key objective of the Company's capital management is to, ensure that it maintains a stable capital structure with the focus on total equity, uphold investor; creditor and customer confidence and ensure future development of its business activities. In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Company may issue new shares, declare dividends, return capital to shareholders, etc.
The Company manages its capital structure and makes adjustments to it, in light of changes in economic conditions or its business requirements. The Company monitors capital using a net gearing ratio calculated as below:
39. Other matters
In 1996, the Company had obtained the permission from DoT to operate its Punjab license through one of its wholly owned subsidiary. However, DoT cancelled the permission to operate in April 1996 and subsequently reinstated in March 1998. Accordingly, for the period from April 1996 to March 1998 ('blackout period') the license fee was disputed and not paid by the Company.
Subsequently, basis the demand from DoT in 2001, the Company paid the disputed license fee of H 4,856 for blackout period under protest. Consequently, the license was restored subject to arbitrator's adjudication on the dispute. The arbitrator adjudicated the matter in favour of DoT, which was challenged by the Company before Delhi High Court. In 2012, Delhi High Court passed an order setting aside the arbitrator's award, which was challenged by DoT and is pending before its division bench. Meanwhile, the Company had filed a writ petition for recovery of the disputed license fee and interest thereto. However, the single bench, despite taking the view that the Company is entitled to refund, dismissed the writ petition. The Company therefore has filed appeal against the said order with division bench and is currently pending. DoT had also filed an appeal against the single judge order. Both these appeals are tagged together and are listed for final hearing.
42. During the year ended March 31, 2026, no funds have been advanced / loaned / invested by the Company to any other person(s) or entity(ies), including foreign entities (Intermediaries), with the understanding that the Intermediary shall (i) directly or indirectly lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Company (Ultimate Beneficiaries) or (ii) provide any guarantee, security on behalf of the Ultimate Beneficiaries.
Further, no funds have been received by the Company from any person(s) or entity(ies), including foreign entities (Funding Parties), with the understanding that the Company shall (i) directly or indirectly, lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Funding Party (Ultimate Beneficiaries) or (ii) provide any guarantee, security on behalf of the Ultimate Beneficiaries.
During the year ended March 31, 2025, no funds have been advanced / loaned / invested by the Company to any other person(s) or entity(ies), including foreign entities (Intermediaries), with the understanding that the Intermediary shall (i) directly or indirectly lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Company (Ultimate Beneficiaries) or (ii) provide any guarantee, security on behalf of the Ultimate Beneficiaries.
Further, no funds have been received by the Company from any person(s) or entity(ies), including foreign entities (Funding Parties), with the understanding that the Company shall (i) directly or indirectly, lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Funding Party (Ultimate Beneficiaries) or (ii) provide any guarantee, security on behalf of the Ultimate Beneficiaries.
43. Audit Trail
The Company has used various accounting and related softwares for maintaining its books of account, wherein the audit trail (edit log) feature was enabled and operating throughout the year and there were no instances of audit trail feature being tampered with for the aforesaid accounting and related softwares. Additionally, the audit trail records have been preserved as per the statutory requirements for record retention in respect of above accounting and related softwares.
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