Tue Sep 24 19:45:36 UTC 2024: ## Vodafone Idea in Talks with Government Over AGR Dues Recalculation

**New Delhi:** Debt-ridden telecom operator Vodafone Idea (Vi) is in fresh discussions with the Indian government regarding the recalculation of its Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues. Vi believes the initial calculations were incorrect and are seeking a revised assessment.

The company’s chairman, Ravinder Takkar, confirmed the ongoing talks during a conference call with investors on Monday. Union Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia corroborated the statement, highlighting the mutual desire for a deeper understanding of the issue.

Takkar emphasized Vi’s stance, stating that the company is seeking a “comprehensive view” of the matter and believes it’s unfair to be burdened with a calculation error.

Meanwhile, Vi is actively pursuing additional funding sources, including potential waivers on bank guarantees worth ₹27,000 crore. The company anticipates reaching a solution on this within the coming weeks.

Vi’s net AGR liability currently stands at ₹70,300 crore, a figure the company contests, claiming a revised assessment of ₹21,533 crore is more accurate. The AGR model, established in 1999, requires telecom operators to share a portion of their revenue with the government.

Despite the ongoing financial challenges, Vi recently announced a ₹30,000 crore deal with Nokia, Ericsson, and Samsung to expand its services, signaling a move towards implementing a six-year capital expenditure plan worth ₹55,000 crore.

Vi’s shares closed at ₹10.83 on Monday, witnessing a 3.34% increase. The company remains the only private telecom operator in India without commercially available 5G services.

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