Telcos likely to get relief on AGR dues, spectrum charges in April
NEW DELHI : Telecom companies in India are set to receive a financial boost with the government preparing a relief package for the sector saddled with heavy debt and mounting losses, following years of intense competition and low tariffs.
The package is expected to be announced in April and will contain measures such as extension of the deadline for paying adjusted gross revenues (AGR) dues as well as a reduction in base prices for 5G spectrum auction, two people familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity.
“The contents of the package are being discussed at the highest levels. Some possible interventions could include a plan for staggered payments of AGR dues,” one of the persons said. “The package will take a comprehensive view of the sector keeping in mind the ambitious roll-out of 5G,” the person said.