Bharti Airtel has successfully cleared its 2016 spectrum dues with a prepayment of Rs.3,626 crore ($426.4 million) to the Department of Telecom, as confirmed in a company statement on Thursday. This move marks the full settlement of its liabilities related to the spectrum acquired in 2016.
This prepayment is part of Airtel’s broader effort to address its spectrum obligations. In total, the telecom operator has cleared Rs.28,320 crore of spectrum liabilities this year alone. Earlier in September, the company had already paid Rs.8,465 crore toward its dues.
Airtel, the second-largest telecom operator in India, had accumulated substantial spectrum fees due to aggressive bidding in high-stakes auctions over the years. In addition to the 2016 spectrum, the company has also settled its 2012 and 2015 spectrum fees, although the total outstanding liabilities remain undisclosed.
Earlier this year, Airtel also secured a multi-billion-dollar deal with Nokia to supply 4G and 5G equipment, aimed at modernizing its network infrastructure. This partnership is designed to future-proof Airtel’s network and provide an enhanced, eco-friendly user experience.
Further expanding its network reach, Airtel has collaborated with the Indian Army to improve connectivity in remote military bases, including the successful establishment of network services in strategic areas like the Galwan River region and Daulat Beg Oldie, India’s northernmost military outpost.
Additionally, the company has taken steps toward securing government subsidies in Bihar under the state’s new IT policy, with stage one approval already granted.
 to the Department of Telecom, as confirmed in a company statement on Thursday. This move marks the full settlement of its liabilities related to the spectrum acquired in 2016.){kind=link}