Airtel gives performance bonuses but defers salary hikes as it awaits AGR verdict

Mumbai: Bharti Airtel has rolled out performance bonuses for its employees but has held back the hikes and will take a call when the business turns around sustainably and there is more clarity on the impact of statutory dues on the company’s financials, a person familiar with the matter said.

Competitor Vodafone Idea is also unlikely to roll out hikes or bonuses this year, having highlighted its financial stress in the Supreme Court recently, said another person. Reliance Jio is expected to roll out bonuses in August, and may see an increment given to its top performers later on in the year.

“The (Airtel) bonuses were announced on Thursday but employees were told unofficially that a call will be taken on their increments towards the last quarter of the (calendar) year,” the person said.