Vodafone Idea Gets Lifeline: AGR Dues Frozen, Payments Deferred to 2031

• Vodafone Idea's AGR dues frozen at ₹87,695 crore, with a five-year moratorium before payments begin in FY2031, extending to FY2042.
• The government, holding a 49% stake, aims to prevent a telecom duopoly and protect 20 crore customers.
• Specific AGR dues for FY2017-18 and FY2018-19 must be paid between FY2026 and FY2031.
• Experts welcome the move as crucial relief and a "New Year’s gift" for the company, expecting no legal hurdles.
• Frozen AGR dues will be reassessed by the Department of Telecom based on Feb 2020 guidelines, with the outcome binding on both parties.

Why It Matters: Government intervention provides significant relief to Vodafone Idea, deferring AGR payments and ensuring sector competition.