‘Being No. 1 in the minds of customers is most important, non-negotiable’: Airtel Chairman Sunil Mittal

Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Mittal said that the telco’s “inner strength” may have been underestimated by some, as the telco emerged stronger from the “reset” of the industry. India’s No. 2 telco recently reported its first consolidated net profit after six straight quarters. Speaking to ET’s Anandita Singh Mankotia and Romit Guha, Mittal said Airtel had pivoted to a technology company. He expects muted bidding in the upcoming 4G spectrum auctions, with likely no takers again for the 700 MHz band due to its high price. Edited excerpts: Edited excerpts: