Bharti Airtel Initiates Final Call on Partly Paid-up Shares

Bharti Airtel's board has approved the final call of Rs 401.25 per share on 392 million partly paid-up shares, part of its Rs 15,700 crore rights issue. The proceeds will primarily be used to pre-pay and repay borrowings, aiming to make India's operations effectively net debt-free.

Bharti Airtel's board has sanctioned the 'first and final call' of Rs 401.25 per share on its 39.2 crore partially paid-up equity shares, amounting to over Rs 15,700 crore of the remaining rights issue. This marks a significant move in fortifying the company's financial health.

The capital raised will be directed mainly towards the pre-payment and repayment of existing debts, including accrued interest, and for general corporate purposes. This financial strategy, coupled with organic cash generation, positions Airtel's Indian operations to become effectively net debt-free in the near future, apart from Department of Telecom liabilities and finance lease commitments.

The deadline set by the Board to determine holders of the partly paid-up shares, liable to make the payment, is February 6, 2026. The payment window opens on March 2, 2026, and closes by March 16, 2026. Consequently, trading for these shares will be suspended starting February 6, 2026.

(With inputs from agencies.)