GoI to Acquire 48.99% Stake in Vodafone Idea Through ₹36,950 Crore Equity Conversion. Banking & Finance | Dated: 02 Apr 2025 In March 2025, the Government of India (GoI) recently approved a proposal to raise its stake in Mumbai (Maharashtra)-based Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) to 48.99% by converting outstanding spectrum auction dues worth ₹36,950 crore into equity. 🎯 Key Highlights: - This move, part of the September 2021 Reforms and Support Package for the Telecom Sector, aims to alleviate financial stress on the debt-laden telecom operator. - Under Section 62(4) of the Companies Act, 2013, VIL will issue 3,695 crore equity shares (face value: ₹10 each) to the GoI. - The shares will be issued within 30 days after securing approvals from regulators, including the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). 💡 Other Important Facts: (i) Post-conversion, the GoI will become the single-largest shareholder, surpassing current promoters Aditya Birla Group (14.76%) and Vodafone Group (22.56%). (ii) The conversion addresses VIL's deferred spectrum liabilities, including dues for the Financial Year 2025-26 (FY26) amounting to ₹32,723.5 crore (covering 2015 spectrum auction shortfalls and adjusted gross revenue (AGR) obligations). (iii) The GoI's enhanced stake reflects its commitment to sustaining competition in India's telecom sector. 📚 Test Your Knowledge: The Government of India (GoI) recently approved acquiring what percentage stake in Vodafone Idea through equity conversion? Correct Answer: 48.99% 🚀 Quick Recap: