Telecom

ICIL (India Consortium Investment Limited) has divested a portion of its holdings in Bharti Airtel, selling shares worth Rs 7,189 crore, marking a significant exit in India’s telecom sector. The transaction reflects both investor confidence in Airtel’s robust market position and strategic portfolio rebalancing by ICIL. Bharti Airtel, India’s leading telecom operator, continues to demonstrate strong subscriber growth, network expansion, and revenue performance, making its shares highly attractive to investors.

India’s digital economy is expanding at an unprecedented pace, prompting significant advancements in cybersecurity frameworks and telecom infrastructure. As data volumes surge and digital services deepen their reach, the nation is shaping a more resilient security ecosystem through modern legislation, innovative technological safeguards, and sector-wide compliance measures. Simultaneously, telecom advancements—from 5G deployment to emerging satellite-based connectivity—are redefining communication and enabling new business opportunities.

Airtel Payments Bank posted a robust increase in net profit for the second quarter (Q2) of FY25, driven by higher digital transactions, expanding customer engagement, and a growing portfolio of financial services. The bank’s continued focus on financial inclusion, rural penetration, and digital payment innovation bolstered its profitability and transaction value during the quarter.

Bharti Airtel Ltd. recorded a powerful performance in the second quarter of FY26, surpassing market expectations with sharp growth in both profit and revenue. The telecom giant’s consolidated net profit surged 89% year-on-year to Rs. 6,792 crore, while revenue climbed 26% to Rs. 52,145 crore, driven by higher data consumption, improved average revenue per user (ARPU), and steady growth in its African operations.

Bharti Hexacom Ltd., a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel, reported a robust 66% year-on-year rise in net profit for the quarter ended September 2025, reflecting the company’s strong operational performance and sustained subscriber expansion. The telecom operator posted a profit of Rs. 281 crore, driven by rising average revenue per user (ARPU), efficient cost management, and steady data consumption growth. Revenue also increased 8% year-on-year to Rs. 1,850 crore, highlighting improved traction in its key markets of Rajasthan and the Northeast.

Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has spotlighted the remarkable transformation of India Post, emphasizing its evolution from a traditional mail service into a modern, technology-driven institution at the heart of India’s financial and digital inclusion. Speaking at a recent event, Scindia noted that India Post’s extensive network, digital infrastructure, and financial services have become vital components of the government’s vision for a connected, inclusive economy.

India has initiated a pilot project for the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) system, an advanced telecom feature that will display the caller’s verified name on recipients’ phone screens. The move, led by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), aims to curb spam calls, fraud, and misuse of mobile networks by enhancing caller transparency. The pilot, conducted with major telecom operators, will assess the system’s technical feasibility and data protection protocols before a nationwide rollout by 2026.

Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture Starlink is reaffirming its commitment to India with a renewed focus on delivering a secure, compliant, and high-quality user experience. The company aims to integrate seamlessly with India’s regulatory framework while expanding broadband access across underserved and remote regions. As part of its long-term strategy, Starlink is emphasizing local partnerships, adherence to data protection norms, and alignment with India’s digital infrastructure goals.

Airtel Business, the enterprise arm of Bharti Airtel, has won a significant contract with Indian Railways to provide advanced communication and security solutions across its extensive network. The agreement underscores the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure for public transportation safety and operational efficiency. Under the contract, Airtel Business will deploy state-of-the-art network solutions, cybersecurity systems, and real-time monitoring capabilities, enhancing passenger safety and service reliability.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has extended the deadline for testing broadband equipment, providing manufacturers and service providers additional time to comply with technical and regulatory standards. The move aims to ensure robust network security, quality, and interoperability, reflecting the government’s focus on maintaining high standards in India’s rapidly expanding digital infrastructure. Analysts view the extension as a pragmatic decision, allowing stakeholders to align with compliance requirements without disrupting service rollout timelines.