Notices to telcos likely this month: AGR dues may rise 10%, delay spectrum sale

NEW DELHI | MUMBAI: India’s mobile phone companies may be liable to pay around 10% more in dues to the government than previously estimated, following the Supreme Court verdict on adjusted gross revenue (AGR), said government officials with knowledge of the matter. The total dues, pegged at Rs 1.3 lakh crore by the telecom department, could rise further on account of changes to the definition of AGR and the levies having to be calculated for the entire period till date.

That could delay auctions of spectrum even further, considering the precarious financial situation of the sector, people familiar with the matter said, perhaps until late next year. The sale of airwaves, including 5G spectrum, will be conducted this financial year, the government had said earlier. This timeline may be reconsidered, said people with knowledge of the matter.