WE ARE NEVER SHY OF INCREASING TARIFF: VODAFONE IDEA CEO RAVINDER TAKKAR

Just when everyone had written Vodafone Idea off, it has sent out a strong signal that it’s going to be around, possibly for years to come. At a virtual roundtable called to announce a strategic decision, the telecom company — saddled with huge losses and high debt — launched a new brand identity for itself on Monday. It’s the final step in the biggest integration of two telecom brands, said Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone Idea RAVINDER TAKKAR in a short Q&A session with a select journalists. Edited excerpts:

On private equity firms participating in the proposed ~25,000-crore fundraising plan:

The board okayed the fundraising proposal last week. We are evaluating all the options before us. We won’t comment on the specifics.

On whether promoters would invest in equity or if they would dilute their stake:

I cannot talk on behalf of the promoters. What is important is Vodafone Idea has decided to raise additional funds not just for paying the AGR (adjusted gross revenue) dues but also for continuity of business and service. I can say that we have support from both the promoters in the near future or forever.

On the 10-year staggered payment allowed by the Supreme Court and if it is sufficient:

The government had asked for 20 years and we also sought at least 15-year installment. But, we are thankful to the court for giving us 10 years. It’s very useful to us as we plan our journey ahead. We have already paid our 10 per cent upfront due. Our installment will begin in March 2022 now.

On the need and the possibility of hiking tariffs:

Tariffs are unsustainable below cost as is the situation now. Raising tariffs is important and we are never shy of doing that. We have done it in the past when industry players followed us. That’s the reason, the regulator is also engaged in a discussion for setting a floor price. It’s important for the industry to be healthy… I’m sure everyone will be headed towards a price increase. In the short term, I expect ARPUS should go to ~200 and then move up to ~300.

On the company’s profitability plan:

Of course, there’s a (profitability) plan. At the core of the business is how to provide a great service to our consumers and how to ensure shareholders get returns. The government’s Digital India is also an important aspect that we keep in mind while doing business. The idea is to be a win win for all stakeholders.

On the status of two separate brands of Vodafone and Idea:

The idea in one common brand is integration, while cost-saving may be there. The two independent brands will be phased out, but the legacy of the two companies will reflect in the common brand.

On network connectivity improving:

It has been a very complex and large integration. We are confident that network connectivity will improve.

WE ARE THANKFUL TO THE COURT FOR GIVING US 10 YEARS. IT’S VERY USEFUL TO US AS WE PLAN OUR JOURNEY AHEAD