iii. Contingent liabilities and provisions
The contingent liability is a possible obligation that arises from past events whose existence will be confirmed by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events beyond the control of the Company. The Company evaluates the obligation through Probable, Possible or Remote model ('PPR'). In making the evaluation for PPR, the Company take into consideration the Industry perspective, legal and technical view, availability of documentation/ agreements, interpretation of the matter, independent opinion from professionals (specific matters) etc. which can vary based on subsequent events. The Company provides the liability in the books for probable cases, while possible cases are shown as Contingent Liability. The remote cases are not disclosed in the financial statement. Contingent assets are neither recognized nor disclosed in the financial statements.
iv. Defined benefit plans (gratuity benefits)
The cost of the defined benefit gratuity plan and the present value of the gratuity obligation are determined using actuarial valuations. An actuarial valuation involves making various assumptions that may differ from actual developments in the future. These include the determination of the discount rate, future salary increases and mortality rates. Due to the complexities involved in the valuation and its long-term nature, a defined benefit obligation is highly sensitive to changes in these assumptions. All assumptions are reviewed at each reporting date.
v. Fair value measurement and valuation
Some of Company's assets and liabilities are measured at fair value for financial reporting purposes. In estimating the fair value of an asset and liabilities, the Company uses market - observable data to the extent it is available. Where Level 1 inputs are not available, the Company engages third party qualified valuers to perform the valuation. Information about the valuation techniques and inputs used in determining the fair value of various assets and liabilities are disclosed in note 2.2 (g) and 38.
vi. Going concern
The Company prepares the financial statement on a Going Concern basis in view of financial support from Ultimate Holding Company and assuming the cash flows generation from the continuation of operations, outflow for capital expenditure and the repayment obligations of debt and interest for the next twelve months. In calculating the cash flow generation from the business, certain assumptions are required to be made in respect of highly uncertain matters, including management's expectations of earnings,
interest cost and capex outflow to reflect the risks involved. The Company also make certain assumptions regarding the continuation of credit from lenders.
vii. Provision for onerous contracts
Provision for foreseeable losses on long term contracts is primarily on account of various contracts with Infrastructure Provider vendors which became onerous due to closure of IP sites before the agreed lock in period. An onerous contract is a contract in which the unavoidable costs of meeting the obligations under the contract exceed the economic benefit expected to be received under it.
viii. Leases
The Company evaluates if an arrangement qualifies to be a lease as per the requirements of Ind AS 116. The application of Ind AS 116 requires company to make judgements and estimates that affect the measurement of right-of-use assets and liabilities. The Company uses significant judgement in assessing the lease term and the applicable discount rate.
The Company determines the lease term as the non-cancellable period of a lease, together with both periods covered by an option to extend the lease if the Company is reasonably certain to exercise that option; and periods covered by an option to terminate the lease if the Company is reasonably certain not to exercise that option. In assessing whether the Company is reasonably certain to exercise an option to extend a lease, or not to exercise an option to terminate a lease, it considers all relevant facts and circumstances that create an economic incentive for the Company to exercise the option to extend the lease, or not to exercise the option to terminate the lease. The Company revises the lease term if there is a change in the relevant facts and circumstances. Estimates are required to determine the appropriate discount rate used to measure lease liabilities.
The Company cannot readily determine the interest rate implicit in the lease, therefore, it uses its incremental borrowing rate (IBR) to measure lease liabilities. The Company uses return on government securities with similar maturity as base rate and makes adjustments for spread based on the Company's credit rating as the implicit interest rate is not readily ascertainable.
2.4 Summary of other accounting policies
This note provides a list of other accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these financial statements to the extent they have not already been disclosed in the other notes above. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.
a) Current and non-current classification
The Company presents assets and liabilities in the balance sheet based on current/ non-current classification.
When an asset meets any of the following criteria it is treated as current:
• Expected to be realised or intended to be sold or consumed in normal operating cycle
• Held primarily for the purpose of trading
• Expected to be realised within twelve months after the reporting period, or
• Cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period
All other assets are classified as non-current.
When a liability meets any of the following criteria it is treated as current:
• It is expected to be settled in normal operating cycle
• It is held primarily for the purpose of trading
• It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period, or
• There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period
All other liabilities are classified as non-current.
The operating cycle is the time between the acquisition of assets for processing and their realisation in cash and cash equivalents. The Company has identified twelve months as its operating cycle.
b) Foreign currencies
Functional and presentation currency
I tems included in the financial statements of the Company is measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates ('the functional currency'). The Company's financial statements are presented in Indian Rupees (INR), which is also the Company's functional and presentation currency.
Initial measurement
Transactions in foreign currencies on initial recognition are recorded at the prevailing exchange rate between the Company's functional currency and the foreign currency on the date of the transaction. However, for practical reasons, the Company uses an average rate if the average approximates the actual rate at the date of the transaction.
Subsequent measurement
At each balance sheet date, foreign currency monetary items are reported using the closing exchange rate. Exchange differences that arise on settlement of monetary items or on restatement at each balance sheet date of the company's monetary items at the closing rate are recognised as income or expenses in the period in which they arise.
Non-monetary items which are carried at historical cost denominated in a foreign currency are reported using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary items measured at fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair value was determined. The gain or loss arising on translation of non-monetary items is recognised in line with the gain or loss of the item that gave rise to the translation difference (translation differences on items whose gain or loss is recognised in other comprehensive income or the statement of profit and loss is also recognised in other comprehensive income or the statement of profit and loss respectively).
c) Finance income
(i) Interest income
The interest income is recognised on accrual basis. For further details, refer note 2.2(h) on financial instruments.
(ii) Dividend income
Dividend income is recognised when the Company's right to receive the payment is established and no significant uncertainty as to collectibility exist.
d) Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of a qualifying asset, including interest attributable to the funding of license fees up to the date the asset is available for use, are capitalised as a part of the cost of that asset.
All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they occur. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs that an entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds. Interest income earned on the temporary investment of specific borrowings pending their expenditure on qualifying assets is deducted from the borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation.
e) Trade receivables
Trade receivables are amounts due from customers for goods sold or services performed in the ordinary course of business and reflects company's
unconditional right to consideration (that is, payment is due only on the passage of time). Trade receivables are recognised initially at the transaction price as they do not contain significant financing components. The company holds the trade receivables with the objective of collecting the contractual cash flows and therefore measures them subsequently at amortised cost, less loss allowance.
f) Trade and other payables
These amounts represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the company prior to the end of financial year which are unpaid. Trade and other payables are presented as current liabilities unless payment is not due within 12 months after the reporting period. They are recognized at their fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost.
g) Provisions (including asset retirement obligation)
Provisions are recognised when the Company has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. The expense relating to a provision is presented in the statement of profit and loss net of any reimbursement.
If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, when appropriate, the risks specific to the liability. When discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as a finance cost.
Asset Retirement Obligation ("ARO") is provided for arrangements where the Company has a binding obligation to restore the said location/premises at the end of the period in a condition similar to inception of the arrangement. The restoration and decommissioning costs are provided at the present value of expected costs to settle the obligation using estimated cash flows and are recognised as part of the cost of the particular asset. The cash flows are discounted at a current pre-tax rate that reflects the risks specific to the decommissioning liability. The unwinding of the discount is expensed as incurred and recognised in the statement of profit and loss as a finance cost. The estimated future costs of decommissioning are reviewed annually and adjusted as appropriate. Changes in the estimated future costs or in the discount rate applied are added to or deducted from the cost of the asset.
h) Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents in the balance sheet comprise cash at banks and on hand and short-term deposits with an original maturity of three months or less, which are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value. For the purpose of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term deposits, as defined above, net of outstanding bank overdrafts (including cash credit) as they are considered an integral part of the Company's cash management.
i) Loss per share
Basic loss per share is calculated by dividing the net loss for the year attributable to equity shareholders by the weighted average number of equity shares outstanding during the year.
For the purpose of calculating diluted loss per share, the net profit or loss for the year attributable to equity shareholders and the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the year are adjusted for the effects of all dilutive potential equity shares.
j) Taxes
Current income tax
Current income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. Current tax is based on the taxable profit for the year which may differ from 'profit or loss before tax' as reported in the statement of profit and loss because of items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and items that are never taxable or deductible. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted, at the reporting date. Current income tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised outside profit or loss (either in other comprehensive income or in equity).
The Company offsets tax assets and liabilities if and only if it has a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets and current tax liabilities and the current tax assets and current tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority.
The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to tax incidence (if any) where applicable tax regulation is subject to interpretation and considers whether it is probable that a taxation authority will accept an uncertain tax treatment. The Company measures its tax balances either based on the most likely amount or the expected value, depending on which method
provides a better prediction of the resolution of the uncertainty.
Deferred tax
Deferred tax is recognised on temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable income. Deferred tax assets are generally recognised for all deductible temporary differences, the carry forward of any unused tax losses, to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which those deductible temporary differences can be utilised. Such deferred tax assets and liabilities are not recognised if the temporary difference arises from the initial recognition (other than in a business combination) of assets and liabilities in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.
Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences, except:
• In respect of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates and interests in joint ventures, when the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilised. Unrecognised deferred tax assets are re-assessed at each reporting date and are recognised to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profit will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the year when the asset is realised or the liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.
Current and deferred tax are recognised in profit or loss, except when they relate to items that are recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case, the current and deferred tax are also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity respectively.
Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.
Deferred tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised outside profit or loss in correlation to the underlying transaction either in other comprehensive income or directly in equity.
k) Exceptional items
When items of income or expense are of such nature, size and incidence that their disclosure is necessary to explain the performance of the Company for the year, the company makes a disclosure of the nature and amount of such items separately under the head "exceptional items."
l) License entry fee
The license entry fee has been recognised as an intangible asset and is amortised on straight line basis over the remaining license period from the date when it is available for use in the respective circles. License entry fee includes interest on funding of license entry fee and bank guarantee commission up to the date of license available for use in the respective circles.
Fees paid for migration of the original Unified Access Service license to the Unified license is amortised over the remaining period of the license for the respective circle from the date of migration to Unified licenses/ payment of the license fees on straight line basis.
Fees paid for obtaining in-principle approval to use alternate technology under the Unified Access Service licenses has been recognised as an intangible asset and is amortised from the date of approval over the balance remaining period of the Unified Access Service licenses on straight line basis for the respective circles.
m) Revenue sharing fee
Revenue sharing fee on license is computed as per the licensing agreement at the prescribed rate and expensed as license fees in the statement of profit and loss in the year in which the related revenue from providing unified access services are recognised.
n) Intangible assets
Intangible assets are recognised when the Company controls the asset, it is probable that future economic benefits attributed to the asset will flow to the Company and the cost of the asset can be measured reliably. Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. Subsequently, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.
The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed as either finite or indefinite. There are no intangible assets assessed with indefinite useful life.
Intangible assets with finite lives are amortised over the useful economic life and assessed for impairment whenever there is an indication that the intangible asset may be impaired.
Computer software is amortised over 3 years.
The amortisation period and the amortisation method for an intangible asset with a finite useful life are reviewed at least at the end of each year. Changes in the expected useful life are considered to modify the amortisation period or method, and are treated as changes in accounting estimates. The amortisation expense on intangible assets with finite lives is recognised in the statement of profit and loss.
Gains or losses arising from de-recognition of an intangible asset are measured as the difference between the net disposal proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and are recognised in the statement of profit or loss when the asset is derecognised. For License fees refer note 2.4(l).
o) Segment reporting
The Company's chief operating decision makers look at the financials of the Company as a whole without segregating into any components for the purpose of allocating resources and assessing performance. Accordingly, the Company has not identified any operating segments to be reported.
p) Measurement of Earnings/Loss Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA)
The Company has elected to present earnings before finance cost, tax, exceptional items and depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) as a separate line item on the face of the statement of profit and loss. The Company measures EBITDA on the basis of profit/ (loss) from continuing operations.
q) Contributed equity
Equity shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.
Notes:
Undrawn borrowing facilities:
As at March 31,2025, the Company has undrawn committed borrowing facilities of I 94.14 Crores (March 31, 2024 - I 166.29 Crores). Compliance with loan covenant:
The company does not have any financial covenant requirement for the loan outstanding as at March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024 respectively.
Deferred payment liability for LF and SUC (Refer note 35):
i) Terms of repayment:
Hon'ble Supreme Court directed the Operators to pay 10% of the total outstanding amount claimed by DoT, on or before March 31,2021. The balance is payable in instalments commencing April 1, 2021 up to March 31,2031 payable by March 31 of every year. In compliance of the SC order, the Company has already made payment of I 639.39 Crores during quarter ended on March 31, 2020.
On September 15, 2021, Government of India informed regarding reform & relief measures for Telecom Service Providers ('TSPs') and on October 14, 2021 issued a communication to TTML granting them opportunity of opting for deferment of the AGR dues by a period of four years and paying interest amount by converting the same in equity. On October 29, 2021, company has informed DoT about its decision to opt for deferment of its AGR related dues by four years. First instalment is due on March 31, 2026.
Term loans outstanding are secured by way of first pari-passu charge on movable (fixed & current) assets of the Company's enterprise, fixed wire line and broad band division excluding; certain intangible assets and current and future investments in associate and subsidiary company and Joint ventures of the Company.
Refer balance sheet notes for carrying amount of property, plant and equipment and other assets mentioned above as hypothecated by the Company.
Interest rate:¬ - Interest rate for term loans is in the range of 7.35% to 8.75% p.a.
(b) Inter-corporate deposit (ICD)
As on March 31, 2025
i) Out of total outstanding, ICDs of I 4,053 Crores (liability component of I 3,414.78 Crores at the March 31, 2025) were extended for a further period of 2 years from the respective date of maturity and all other terms are the same as agreed at the time of issue.
ii) Terms of repayment:¬ - ICDs are fully repayable after 2 years from the date of receipt/extension.
iii) Interest rate:¬ - Interest rate for ICD is 0.1% p.a.
iv) As the interest rate of ICD is lower than market rate, it has been considered as compound financial instrument and has been separated into equity component and liability component as per Ind AS 32. Interest on liability component of ICD has been recognized by applying effective interest rate (EIR) within the range of 8.56% to 8.80%.
As on March 31, 2024
i) Out of total outstanding, ICDs of I 6,490.15 Crores (liability component of I 5,461.04 Crores at the March 31, 2024) were extended for a further period of 2 years from the respective date of maturity and all other terms are the same as agreed at the time of issue.
ii) Terms of repayment:¬ - ICDs are fully repayable after 2 years from the date of receipt/extension.
iii) Interest rate:¬ - Interest rate for ICD is 0.1% p.a.
iv) As the interest rate of ICD is lower than market rate, it has been considered as compound financial instrument and has been separated into equity component and liability component as per Ind AS 32. Interest on liability component of ICD has been recognized by applying effective interest rate (EIR) within the range of 8.15% to 8.80%.
(c) Liability component of redeemable preference shares
On September 18, 2024, the Company further extended the term of RPS for a further period of 24 months with an option to the Company to redeem at such earlier date as may be decided by the Board of Directors or Finance Committee of the Company. The equity portion of these redeemable preference shares, on account of dividend percentage being lower than effective market rate, is recorded in Other equity.
Notes:
a) Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) raised a demand of I 166.90 Crores including interest for the period November 14, 2004 up to February 28, 2006, claiming Access Deficit Charge (ADC) was payable on the company's fixed wireless services - Walky. Telecom Dispute Settlement Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) negated the company's petition, and the Supreme Court in 2008 directed TDSAT to quantify the amounts. However, TDSAT disposed the Company's Petition on April 15, 2010, confirming BSNL demands up to August 25, 2005 and gave BSNL liberty to lodge its claim for a further period up to February 28, 2006. The company appealed to the Supreme Court against the TDSAT Order. As of March 31, 2024, the company has paid I 114.29 Crores under protest, provided for the same in accounts, and disclosed I 55.91 Crores as a contingent liability. Based on the legal advice available with the company maintains that the penalty clause invoked by BSNL does not apply and is entitled to seek a refund of excess payment.
b) The Company received a demand of I 290.17 Crores from Department of telecommunications (DoT) for one-time spectrum charges for additional CDMA spectrum beyond 2.5MHz from January 1, 2013, until license expiry. The Company opted to retain only one block in Mumbai and surrendered the rest, arguing that the demand altered past financial terms. It challenged the levy in the Hon'ble Bombay High Court, which granted a stay and later permitted TTML to withdraw the petition to approach TDSAT. TDSAT, on March 23, 2025, allowed DoT time to file an Affidavit on the submission that the matter is covered by earlier Judgments of the TDSAT on identical issues and that the Appeals against the aforesaid TDSAT judgments are pending before Supreme Court. The matter is listed for directions on April 28, 2025.
c) DoT instructed TERM Cells to conduct monthly audits for compliance with subscriber verification norms and issued circulars to impose penalties for non-compliance/s observed during these audits. Total penalties on TTML amount to I 268.84 Crores (March 31,2024: I 268.84 Crores). The Company has challenged some demands/penalties and circulars in the Hon'ble Bombay High Courts and TDSAT, arguing that the circulars are ultra vires and impose penalties beyond those prescribed under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. The Company has made representations to TERM Cell and DoT (HQ) against the demands/penalties. Out of the aforesaid amount of I 268.84 Crores, the Company has till date provided for amounts aggregating I 3.69 Crores. Based on legal advice, the Company has disclosed I 265.15 Crores as a contingent liability.
d) Bharti raised demands on the Company for SMS termination charges since June 2009 under their interconnection agreement. The Company disputed these charges as unreasonable and discriminatory. In 2012, TDSAT ruled
in Bharti's favour, and the Supreme Court admitted the Company's appeal but directed the Company to pay the amount on the condition that any amounts paid by the Company would be refunded back with interest in the event the matter is adjudged in the Company's favour. The appeal is pending. As of March 31, 2025, the Company has fully provided for the I 71.85 Crores liability, with I 66.38 Crores already paid under dispute.
Other operators (Idea and Vodafone) have raised claims for SMS termination amounting to I 53.21 Crores (March 31,2024 - I 53.21 Crores), which were challenged in TDSAT by the Company. During the year 2015-16, TDSAT has pronounced judgment with respect to SMS termination charges in two of the cases and one (Unitech) is still pending. The Company believes that the amounts adjudged as payable by TDSAT are not tenable in the absence of any contractual arrangements with these operators for SMS termination and that the arrangement between the parties was based on the principle of Bill & Keep and has filed the appeal against the judgment in Supreme Court and the matters were listed before Supreme Court on March 3, 2020 but were not taken up and will be heard in due course. Accordingly, these claims have been disclosed as contingent liabilities.
e) DoT issued demand notes on March 15, 2018, for I 3.70 Crores and I 7 Crores due to alleged delays in fulfilling CDMA and GSM roll-out obligations under the License Agreements. The Company challenged these demands in TDSAT. TDSAT has granted a stay and restrained DoT from taking coercive action. Based on internal assessment, the Company expects the demands to be quashed and has disclosed them as contingent liabilities. During a May 24, 2022, hearing, the Registrar confirmed that pleadings and evidence were complete and that cross-examinations would only be required if deemed necessary by the Court. The Company has disclosed the total I 10.70 Crores (March 31, 2024: I 10.70 Crores) as a contingent liability.
:) TTML has been involved in a long-standing property
tax dispute with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) concerning its Al-Aqmar office premises, originally taken on lease by Hughes Telecom in 1997-98. The dispute stems from PMC revising the property tax from September 1998 onwards, without fixing the Annual Rateable Value (ARV) which could be revised by PMC only after granting an opportunity to TTML. The demand of I 1.10 Crores raised by PMC was thus, challenged before the Civil Court at Pune when the Court directed PMC to fix ARV after giving opportunity to TTML and raise fresh demand, which order was not complied with by PMC.
TTML subsequently challenged another demand of I 11.83 Crores raised by PMC in Jan 2015 and obtained stay in March 2015.
In May 2019, PMC raised another undated demand notice for I 80.78 Crores for the period from 2003 to 2019, which demand was rebutted by TTML, calling upon PMC to fix the ARV as per the Court's directions.
PMC later in January 2021 posted demand of I 121.39 Crores (for FY 2019-20 cumulative from 2003) on its website, which was challenged by TTML and stay was granted against the demand in March 2021 and PMC was restrained to post such demands on its website.
Despite stay orders being in force, PMC again issued three separate invoices totalling to 276 Crores in April and May 2024, as property tax allegedly due and payable by TTML for till FY 2024-25 in respect of three separate property tax accounts.
However, despite stay orders obtained by TTML, PMC continued posting demands on its website month on month, which accumulated demand stands at I 349.47 Crores as of April 1, 2025.
TTML has made several representations to PMC including issuing contempt notice which did not evoke any response from PMC. TTML has in March 2025, moved a Misc. Application before the Civil Court at Pune praying for striking off PMC's defence on the ground of contempt of the stay order, which application is listed for further proceedings on April 21, 2025.
TTML has assessed the property tax liability at I 5.74 Crores (of which I 10.56 Crores has already been paid) and has thus demanded a refund of I 4.82 Crores from PMC, vide its representation made to PMC in September 2024. However, pending litigation being pursued by TTML against PMC, TTML has considered contingent liability of I 76.29 Crores of the total I 276 Crores exposure (based on physical invoices received from PMC in April & May 2024).
g) The Company has assessed the impact of the Supreme Court's judgment dated February 28, 2019, in the "Vivekananda Vidyamandir" case, along with the related EPFO circular issued on March 20, 2019. The ruling addressed the inclusion of certain allowances in "basic wages" for provident fund contributions under the EPF Act, 1952. Based on legal advice, the Company believes the judgment does not materially impact its financials. However, it will continue to monitor and reassess its position based on future developments.
Note 35:
The Hon'ble Supreme Court ('SC') pronounced its Judgement on October 24, 2019 ('Judgement'), allowing the appeal of Department of Telecommunication's ('DoT') in respect of the definition of Gross Revenue ('GR') and Adjusted Gross Revenue ('AGR').
Further, on September 1,2020, SC directed the Operators to pay 10% of the total outstanding as mentioned in the modification application filed by DoT, by March 31, 2021, and the balance in annual instalments commencing April 1,2021 up to March 31,2031 payable by March 31 of every year. On October 14, 2021, DoT had granted one time opportunity of opting for deferment of the AGR dues by a period of four years. Tata Teleservices Limited and Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited have opted for moratorium for four years on AGR dues vide letter dated October 29, 2021.
In terms of Supreme Court's direction in para 38 (ii) of its Order dated September 01, 2020, Tata Teleservices Limited and Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited have submitted the compliance Affidavit on April 3, 2025.
DoT vide letter June 15, 2022, granted further opportunity to exercise the option of moratorium of AGR related dues up to financial year 2018-19 and not tabulated in the Hon'ble Supreme Court order dated September 01, 2020 for a period of four years. Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited has given acceptance of moratorium for four years as per the terms of said letter from DoT, vide its letter dated June 30, 2022.
On October 17, 2023, Tata Teleservices Limited and Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited had filed Curative Petitions requesting SC to reconsider levy of interest, penalty and interest on penalty, which were rejected by Hon'ble Supreme Court vide order dated August 30, 2024. Further, review application (R.P. (C) No.1022 of 2021) filed by Tata Teleservices Limited and Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited jointly on August 22, 2021 against Hon'ble Supreme Court order dated July 23, 2021 was also rejected on January 28, 2025.
During the year ended March 31, 2025, Tata Teleservices (Maharashtra) Limited continues to recognize interest on AGR obligations. The amount has been recorded in compliance with the accounting standards, strictly without prejudice to TTML's legal rights, claims, remedies and contentions available under law.
Note 37:
The disclosure as required under Ind AS 19 regarding the Employee benefits is as follows:
Employee benefit plans Defined contribution plans
The Company makes Provident Fund contributions which are defined contribution plans, for qualifying employees. Under the schemes, the Company is required to contribute a specified percentage of the payroll costs to fund the benefits. The Company recognised I 2.49 Crores for the year ended March 31,2025 (I 2.28 Crores for the year ended March 31,2024) for Provident Fund contributions in the Statement of Profit and Loss. The contributions payable to these plans by the Company are at rates specified in the rules of the schemes.
Gratuity and other post-employment benefit plans
The Company offers the following employee benefit schemes to its employees (Refer note 29):
i. Gratuity
ii. Compensated absences
(i) Gratuity
The Company has defined benefit gratuity plan. Every employee who has completed five years or more gets the gratuity on departure at 15 days salary i.e. last drawn salary for each completed year of service. The scheme is funded with an insurance company in the form of a qualifying insurance policy.
The above sensitivity analyses are based on a change in an assumption while holding all other assumptions constant. In practice, this is unlikely to occur, and changes in some of the assumptions may be correlated. When calculating the sensitivity of the defined benefit obligation to significant actuarial assumptions the same method (present value of the defined benefit obligation calculated with the projected unit credit method at the end of the reporting period) has been applied as when calculating the defined benefit liability recognised in the balance sheet. The sensitivity analysis presented above may not be representative of the actual change in the defined benefit obligation as it is unlikely that the change in assumptions would occur in isolation of one another as some of the assumptions may be correlated.
There was no change in the methods and assumptions used in preparing the sensitivity analysis from prior years.
The Expected contribution for the next year is I 0.30 Crores (March 31, 2024 - I 0.82 Crores)
The weighted average duration of the defined benefit plan obligation at the end of the reporting period is 4.93 years (March 31 2024: 4.14 years).
ii) Compensated absences
The compensated absences cover the Company's liability for earned leave, which are classified as other long-term benefits.
Total compensated absences provision as on March 31,2025 is I 3.25 Crores (I 3.02 Crores as on March 31,2024) which is presented as current provision, since the Company does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement for any of these obligations. Provision for compensated absences has been made on the basis of actuarial valuation carried out as at the balance sheet date. The amount charged to the statement of profit & loss under Salaries and bonus in Note 29 Employee benefits expenses is I 0.58 Crores (March 31, 2024 - I 0.61 Crores).
(iii) Contribution to other funds
The Company makes Employee State Insurance Scheme contributions which are defined contribution plans, for qualifying employees. The Company recognised I Nil Crores for the year ended March 31,2025 (I 0.00 Crores for the year ended March 31, 2024)* for Employee State Insurance Scheme contributions in the statement of profit and loss. The contributions payable to these plans by the Company are at rates specified in the rules of the schemes.
*Figures are below rounding off norms adopted by the Company.
(iv) Long term incentive plans
The Company has made contribution for long term incentive plan for employees and recognised I 0.15 Crores for the year ended March 31,2025 (I Nil Crores for the year ended March 31,2024) in the statement of profit and loss, with discounting rate of 6.55%.
The fair values of non-current borrowings are based on discounted cash flows using a current borrowing rate. They are classified as level 3 fair values in the fair value hierarchy due to the use of unobservable inputs, including own credit risk.
For financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value except investments in mutual fund, the carrying amounts are equal to the fair values.
Fair value hierarchy
The fair value hierarchy is based on inputs to valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value that are either observable or unobservable and consists of the following three levels.
• Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
• Level 2 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly observable
• Level 3 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable
For the purpose of fair value disclosures, the Company has determined classes of assets and liabilities on the basis of the nature, characteristics and risks of the asset or liability and the level of the fair value hierarchy as explained above.
The following table summarises financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis and financial assets that are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis (but fair value disclosures are required).
Assets and Liabilities that are disclosed at Amortised Cost for which Fair values are disclosed are classified as Level 3. If one or more of the significant inputs is not based on observable market data, the respective assets and liabilities are considered under Level 3.
At the end of the reporting year, there are no significant concentrations of credit risk for financial assets and financial liabilities designated at FVTPL. The carrying amount reflected above represents the company's maximum exposure to credit risk of such financial assets and liabilities.
The fair values of the financial liabilities included in the level 3 category above have been determined in accordance with generally accepted pricing models based on a discounted cash flow analysis, with the most significant inputs being the discount rate that reflects the credit risk of counterparties.
Financial instruments
(ii) Capital management
The Company manages it's capital to ensure that it will be able to continue as a going concern while maximising the return to stakeholders through the optimization of the debt and equity balance. The capital structure of the Company consists of net debt (borrowings as detailed in notes 18 and 21 offset by cash and bank balances and current investments) and total equity of the Company. Also, refer note 1.3 on going concern and note 18 on Deferred payment liability for LF and SUC.
(iii) Financial risk management objectives
Inherent to the nature of the Company's business, there are a variety of financial risks, namely liquidity risk, market risk and credit risk. Developing policies and processes to assess, monitor, manage and address these risks is the responsibility of the Company's Management. The management oversees this risk management framework in the Company and intervenes as necessary to ensure there exists an appropriate level of safeguards against the key risks. Updates on compliance, exceptions and mitigating action are placed before the Audit Committee periodically.
The Company's management works closely to ensure there are appropriate policies and procedures governing the operations of the Company with a view to providing assurance that there is visibility into financial risks and that the business is being run in conformity with the stated risk objectives. Periodic reviews with concerned stakeholders provides an insight into risks to the business associated with currency movements, credit risks, etc. and necessary deliberations are undertaken to ensure there is an appropriate response to the developments.
The risk management objective of the Company is to hedge risk of change in the foreign currency exchange rates associated with it's direct transactions denominated in foreign currency. Since most of the transactions of the Company are denominated in its functional currency (INR), any foreign exchange fluctuation affects the profitability of the Company and its financial position. Hedging provides stability to the financial performance by estimating the amount of future cash flows and reducing volatility.
The Company follows a consistent policy of mitigating foreign exchange risk by entering into appropriate hedging instruments as considered from time to time. The Company is having a defined risk management policy for exposure in foreign currencies. The Company does not enter into a foreign exchange transaction for speculative purposes.
(iv) Market risk
The company's activities expose it primarily to the financial risks of changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates. The Company enters into a variety of derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to foreign currency risk and interest rate risk, including:
• Forward foreign exchange contracts to hedge the exchange rate risk arising on foreign currency trade payables
• Interest rate swaps to mitigate risk of rising interest rate
There has been no change to the Company's exposure to market risks or the manner in which these risks are being managed and measured. Market risk exposures are measured using sensitivity analysis.
(a) Foreign currency risk management
The Company undertakes transactions denominated in foreign currencies; consequently, exposures to exchange rate fluctuations arise.
The Company is having risk management policy which provides the guidelines for managing the currency risk exposure. Exchange rate exposures are managed within approved policy parameters using derivative/forward foreign exchange contracts.
Hedging activities:
The Company uses foreign exchange forward contracts, Interest rate swap to manage some of its exposures. The foreign exchange forward contract is not designated as cash flow hedges and entered into periods consistent with foreign currency exposure of the underlying transactions.
The carrying amounts of the Company's foreign currency denominated monetary assets is USD Nil (USD Nil as at March 31, 2024), therefore there is no unhedged foreign currency risk exposure.
Foreign Currency sensitivity analysis
The Company does not have any unhedged foreign currency exposure, hence the sensitivity analysis is not required.
(b) Interest rate risk management
The Company is exposed to interest rate risk because it borrows funds at both fixed and floating interest rates. The floating interest rate risk on borrowings is managed by the Company by the use of interest rate swap contracts. Hedging activities are evaluated regularly to align with the interest rate views and defined risk appetite, ensuring the most cost-effective hedging strategies are applied. The Company's exposures to interest rate on financial asset and financial liabilities are detailed in the liquidity risk management section of this note.
As at March 31,2025, the Company has variable rate borrowings of I 4,051.58 Crores (I 3,845.63 Crores as at March 31,2024), out of which net exposure to interest rate risk is I 3,084.07 Crores (I 3,845.63 Crores as at March 31,2024) after considering the effect of derivative instruments.
The sensitivity analysis below have been determined based on floating rate rupee borrowings that are not hedged by derivative instruments, the analysis is prepared assuming the amount of the liability outstanding at the end of the reporting year was outstanding for the whole year. A 50 basis point increase or decrease represents management's assessment of the reasonably possible change in interest rates.
If interest rate had been 50 basis points higher/lower and all other variables were held constant, the Company's loss for the year ended March 31,2025 would increase and decrease by I 15.42 Crores (increase and decrease by I 19.23 Crores as at March 31,2024).
Interest rate swap contract
Using Interest rate swap contracts, the Company agrees to exchange floating rate of interest rate to fixed rate on agreed principal amounts. Such contracts enable the Company to mitigate the interest rate risk on borrowings. Such Contracts are settled on quarterly, semi-annual and on annual basis. The terms of the interest rate swaps generally match the terms of the underlying exposure. In cases where any hedge ineffectiveness arises, it is recognised through profit or loss. Interest Rate Swaps measured at fair value through OCI are designated as hedging instruments in cash flow hedges of floating rate borrowings.
(v) Credit risk management Financial assets
The Company maintains exposure in trade receivables, cash and cash equivalents, investments, term deposits with banks, security deposits with counter-parties. Individual risk limits are set for each counterparty based on financial position, credit rating and past experience. Credit limits and concentration of exposures are actively monitored by the Company.
The Company's maximum exposure to credit risk as at March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024 is the carrying value of each class of financial assets as disclosed in the financial statements..
Trade receivables
Trade receivables are typically unsecured and are derived from revenue earned from customers. Trade receivables of the Company consist of a large number of customers, spread across diverse industries and geographical areas and hence the Company has minimal concentration of credit risk of its customers. Credit risk has been managed by the Company through credit approvals, establishing credit limits and continuously monitoring the creditworthiness of customers to which the Company grants credit terms in the normal course of business. The Company uses expected credit loss model to assess the impairment loss or gain. The Company uses a provision matrix and forward looking information and an assessment of the credit risk over the expected life of the financial asset to compute the expected credit loss allowance for trade receivables. The Company's maximum exposure to credit risk for the components of the balance sheet at March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024 is the carrying amounts as disclosed in Note 11.
(vi) Liquidity risk management
Ultimate responsibility for liquidity risk management rests with the management, which has established an appropriate liquidity risk management framework for the management of the company's short-term, medium-term and long-term funding and liquidity management requirements. The Company manages liquidity risk by maintaining adequate banking and other borrowing facilities, by continuously monitoring forecast and actual cash flows, and by matching the maturity profiles of financial assets and liabilities. The note below sets out details of undrawn facilities that the Company has at its disposal to further reduce liquidity risk. Also, refer note 1.3 on going concern and note 18 on Deferred payment liability for LF and SUC.
As at March 31,2025, the company has undrawn committed borrowing facilities of I 94.14 Crores (March 31,2024 - I 166.29 Crores) towards working capital limits expiring within a year and renewable at discretion of the banks.
Liquidity and interest risk
The following tables detail the Company's remaining contractual maturity for its financial liabilities with agreed repayment periods. The tables have been drawn up based on the undiscounted cash flows of financial liabilities based on the earliest date on which the Company can be required to pay.
Additional information pertaining to variable lease payments
The company has lease contracts for Network sites where a part of the total rent is variable. The additional rent paid is I 21.78 Crores for year ended March 31, 2025 and I 9.63 Crores for the financial year ended March 31,2024.
F Additional information on short-term and low value leases
The Company had leases of building and MSC sites which are short term i.e. lease term of less than 1 year or leases of low-value assets. These leases were short term lease and the company elected not to recognise right to use assets and lease liabilities for these leases. The lease payment of such leases are directly debited to Statement of Profit and Loss.
Company as a lessor- operating lease
The Company enters into 'Indefeasible right to use' ('IRU') arrangements wherein the right to use the assets is given over the substantial part of the asset life. However, as the title to the assets and the significant risks associated with the operation and maintenance of these assets remains with the Company, such arrangements are recognised as operating lease. The contracted price is recognised as revenue during the tenure of the agreement. Unearned IRU revenue received in advance is presented as deferred revenue within liabilities in the Balance Sheet. It also includes rental income from leasing out office space.
Note 41: Segment reporting
The Company is engaged in providing telecommunication services under Unified License. These, in the context of Ind AS 108 on "Segment reporting", are considered to constitute a single reportable segment. Further, the Company provide telecommunication services only in the Indian domestic market and accordingly secondary segment reporting disclosure are not required. Revenues of approximately I 156.89 Crores (March 31, 2024 I 161.05 Crores ) are derived from a single external customer.
Note 43: Deferred tax
No provision for current income tax is required to be made as, on the basis of the Company's computations, there is no taxable income. The Company also carries forward accumulated losses resulting into tax loss carry forward situation. Since, it is not probable that the company will generate future taxable profits; no deferred tax asset has been recognized on unused tax losses. Accordingly, the Company has restricted recognition of deferred tax asset to the extent of deferred tax liability.
Given that uncertainty over future taxable profits available for set off against unabsorbed depreciation and unabsorbed business losses, the Company has not recognised deferred tax assets of I 4,890.16 Crores (March 31, 2024: I 4,872.79 Crores) in respect of unabsorbed depreciation and unabsorbed business losses amounting to I 19,430.05 Crores (March 31, 2024: I 19,361.05 Crores) in aggregate which can be carried forward against future taxable income. Tax losses carry forward for which no deferred tax assets were recorded amounted to:
Note 50: Additional regulatory information required by Schedule III
(i) Details of benami property held
No proceedings have been initiated on or are pending against the Company for holding benami property under the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988 (45 of 1988) and Rules made thereunder.
(ii) Wilful defaulter
The Company has not been declared wilful defaulter by any bank or financial institution or other lender.
(iii) Compliance with number of layers of companies
The company has complied with the number of layers prescribed under the Companies Act, 2013, read with the Companies (Restriction on number of Layers) Rules, 2017.
(iv) Compliance with approved scheme(s) of arrangements
The Company has not entered into any scheme of arrangement which has an accounting impact on current or previous financial year.
(v) Utilisation of borrowed funds and share premium
(1) The Company has not advanced or loaned or invested funds to any other persons or entities, including foreign entities (Intermediaries) with the understanding that the Intermediary shall:
a. directly or indirectly lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Company (Ultimate Beneficiaries) or
b. provide any guarantee, security or the like to or on behalf of the ultimate beneficiaries.
(2) The Company has not received any fund from any persons or entities, including foreign entities (Funding Party) with the understanding (whether recorded in writing or otherwise) that the Company shall:
a. directly or indirectly lend or invest in other persons or entities identified in any manner whatsoever by or on behalf of the Funding Party (Ultimate Beneficiaries) or
b. provide any guarantee, security or the like on behalf of the ultimate beneficiaries.
(vi) Undisclosed income
There is no income surrendered or disclosed as income during the current or previous year in the tax assessments under the Income Tax Act, 1961, that has not been recorded in the books of account.
(vii) Details of crypto currency or virtual currency
The Company has not traded or invested in crypto currency or virtual currency during the current or previous year.
(viii) Valuation of PP&E, right-of-use assets, intangible asset and investment property
The Company has not revalued its property, plant and equipment (including right-of-use assets) or intangible assets or both during the current or previous year.
(ix) Title deeds of immovable properties not held in name of the Company
The title deeds of all the immovable properties (other than properties where the company is the lessee and the lease agreements are duly executed in favour of the lessee), the financial statements, are held in the name of the company.
(x) Registration of Charges
There are no charges or satisfaction which are yet to be registered with the Registrar of Companies beyond the statutory period.
(xi) Utilisation of borrowings availed from banks and financial institutions
The borrowings obtained by the company from banks and financial institutions have been applied for the purposes for which such loans were taken.
(xii) Borrowing secured against current assets
During the year, the Company has been sanctioned/renewed working capital limits in excess of I 5 Crores, in aggregate, from banks on the basis of security of current assets and movable fixed assets. Company has filed necessary details wherever applicable in line with sanction letters.
* Capital Employed includes Total Debt Equity
** Interest expenses exclude notional interest and other finance charges *** Total debt represents Total borrowings
****Short term borrowings represents current borrowings including current maturities of long term debt *****Earning before interest and taxes (EBIT) represents (EBITDA- Depreciation- Other income)
****** Not Applicable as equity is negative
# Average trade receivables exclude unbilled receivables
Reasons for variation more than 25%
1. Increase in net current liabilities on account of trade payable and unearned income
Signatures to Notes 1 to 51
In terms of our report attached
For Price Waterhouse Chartered Accountants LLP For and on behalf of the Board of Directors
Firm Registration Number - 012754N/N500016
Nitin Khatri Amur S. Lakshminarayanan Harjit Singh
Partner Chairman Managing Director
Membership Number: 110282 DIN No.: 08616830 DIN No.: 09416905
Place: Mumbai Place: Mumbai
Shinu Mathai Vrushali Dhamnaskar
Chief Financial Officer Company Secretary
ACMA: 38570 ACS: 28356
Place: Mumbai Place: Mumbai Place: Mumbai
Date: April 23, 2025 Date: April 23, 2025
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