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{{Short description|Indian telecommunications company}}
{{Short description|Defunct Indian telecommunications company}}
{{About|the previous Indian mobile telecommunications company supported by Vodafone|the successor (and current) company|Vodafone Idea}}
{{About|the previous Indian mobile telecommunications company supported by [[Vodafone]]|the successor (and current) company|Vodafone Idea}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2015}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2015}}
{{Infobox company
{{Infobox company
| name = Vodafone India
| name = Vodafone India Limited
| logo = Vodafone 2017 logo.svg
| logo =  
| former_name = Vodafone Essar, Huchison Essar
| former_name = Hutchison Max Telecom Limited (1992-2005)<br />Hutchison Essar Limited (2005-2007)<br />Vodafone Essar Limited (2007-2011)
| type = [[Subsidiary]]
| type = [[Subsidiary company|Subsidiary]]
| fate = Merged with [[Idea Cellular]]
| fate = [[Mergers and acquisitions|Merged]] with [[Idea Cellular]] into [[Vodafone Idea]]
| successor = [[Vodafone Idea Ltd|Vi]]<ref name="NCLT nod" />
| successor = [[Vodafone Idea]]<ref name="NCLT nod" />
| area_served = [[India]]
| area_served = India
| hq_location_city = [[Mumbai]]
| hq_location_city = [[Mumbai]]
| hq_location_country = [[India]]
| hq_location_country = India
| industry = [[Telecommunication]]s
| industry = [[Telecommunications industry|Telecommunications]]
| services = [[Mobile Telephony]]<br />[[Internet service provider]]
| services = [[Mobile telephony]]<br />[[Internet service provider|Internet]]
| founded = {{Start date and age|1994|df=y}}
| foundation = {{Start date and age|1992|02|21}}
| defunct = {{End date and age|df=yes|2018|08|31}}
| founder = {{Unbulleted list
|[[Hutchison Whampoa]]
|[[Max Group]]
}}
| defunct = {{End date|2018|08|31}} (as a company)
{{End date|2020|09|07}} (as a brand)
| owner = [[Vodafone]] (100%)
| parent = [[Vodafone Group]]
| parent = [[Vodafone Group]]
| homepage = {{url|myvi.in}}
| subsid = [[YOU Broadband]] (100%)
| homepage =
}}
}}


'''Vodafone India''' (formerly '''Vodafone Essar''', '''Hutchison Essar''') was the Indian subsidiary of UK-based [[Vodafone|Vodafone Group plc]] and was a provider of [[Telecommunications]] services in India with its operational head office in [[Mumbai]]. As of March 2018, Vodafone India had a market share of 21%<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telecom/telecom-news/reliance-jio-third-largest-telcom-by-revenue-market-share/articleshow/64550327.cms|title=Reliance Jio third-largest telecom by revenue market share|last=Parbat|first=Kalyan|date=2018-06-12|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2018-06-13}}</ref> and with its merger with [[Idea Cellular|Idea]], the collective [[Vodafone Idea]] network has approximately 375 million subscribers and is the [[List of telecom companies in India|Third largest mobile telecommunications network]] in India.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/earnings/vodafone-india-revenue-drops-29-in-fy18/articleshow/64172503.cms|title=Vodafone India revenue drops 29% in FY18|last=Abbas|first=Muntazir|date=2018-05-16|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2018-06-13}}</ref>
'''Vodafone India''' was the Indian [[Subsidiary company|subsidiary]] of United Kingdom-based [[Vodafone Group]] and was a [[Internet service provider|provider]] of [[Telecommunications service|telecommunications services]] in India with its operational [[head office]] in [[Mumbai]].<ref>{{Cite web |date= |title=About Vodafone India Limited - India?s Largest Telecom Company |url=https://www.vodafone.in/about-us/home?section=consumer |access-date=2017-04-29 |website=www.vodafone.in |language=en}}</ref>
 
As of March 2018, Vodafone India had a [[market share]] of 21%,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telecom/telecom-news/reliance-jio-third-largest-telcom-by-revenue-market-share/articleshow/64550327.cms|title=Reliance Jio third-largest telecom by revenue market share|last=Parbat|first=Kalyan|date=2018-06-12|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2018-06-13}}</ref> and with its [[Mergers and acquisitions|merger]] with [[Idea Cellular|Idea]], the collective [[Vodafone Idea]] network has approximately 375 million subscribers and is the [[List of telecom companies in India|third largest mobile telecommunications network]] in India.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Abbas |first=Muntazir |date=2018-05-16 |title=Vodafone India revenue drops 29% in FY18 |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/markets/stocks/earnings/vodafone-india-revenue-drops-29-in-fy18/articleshow/64172503.cms |access-date=2018-06-13 |work=The Economic Times}}</ref>


==History==
==History==
{{Further|Orange (India)|Hutchison Telecommunications International}}
{{Further|Orange (India)|Hutchison Telecommunications International}}


Hutchison Max Telecom Ltd. (HMTL), a joint venture between [[Hutchison Whampoa]] and the Max Group, was established on 21 February 1992.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.corporatedir.com/company/hutchison-max-telecom-limited|title=Hutchison Max Telecom Limited information|publisher=Corporatedir.com|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224173634/http://www.corporatedir.com/company/hutchison-max-telecom-limited|archive-date=24 December 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The licence to operate in [[Mumbai]] (then Bombay) circle was awarded to Hutchison Max by the [[Department of Telecommunications]] (DoT) in November 1994.<ref name="BombayHC">{{Cite web|url = http://bombayhighcourt.nic.in/data/judgements/2010/OSWP130810.pdf|title = THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT BOMBAY - WRIT PETITION NO.1325 OF 2010|publisher = Bombay High Court|access-date = 19 November 2013|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120105214936/http://bombayhighcourt.nic.in/data/judgements/2010/OSWP130810.pdf|archive-date = 5 January 2012|df = dmy-all}}</ref> The cellular service branded "Max Touch" was launched the same year.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/max-india-ltd/infocompanyhistory/companyid-13435.cms | work=The Times Of India | title=Max India Ltd | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111227030621/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/max-india-ltd/infocompanyhistory/companyid-13435.cms | archive-date=27 December 2011 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> Hutchison Max entered into the Delhi telecom circle in December 1999, the [[Kolkata]] circle in July 2000 and the [[Gujarat]] circle in September 2000. Licences for these circles had initially been awarded by the DoT in 1994, 1997 and 1995 respectively. Between 1992 and 2006, Hutchison acquired interests in all 23 mobile telecom circles of India.<ref name="BombayHC" />
Hutchison Max Telecom (HMTL), a [[joint venture]] between [[Hutchison Whampoa]] and the [[Max Group]], was established on 21 February 1992.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.corporatedir.com/company/hutchison-max-telecom-limited|title=Hutchison Max Telecom Limited information|publisher=Corporatedir.com|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224173634/http://www.corporatedir.com/company/hutchison-max-telecom-limited|archive-date=24 December 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref> The licence to operate in [[Bombay]] circle was awarded to Hutchison Max by the [[Department of Telecommunications]] (DoT) in November 1994.<ref name="BombayHC">{{Cite web|url = http://bombayhighcourt.nic.in/data/judgements/2010/OSWP130810.pdf|title = THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT BOMBAY - WRIT PETITION NO.1325 OF 2010|publisher = Bombay High Court|access-date = 19 November 2013|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120105214936/http://bombayhighcourt.nic.in/data/judgements/2010/OSWP130810.pdf|archive-date = 5 January 2012|df = dmy-all}}</ref> The [[Mobile network|mobile service]] branded "Max Touch" was launched the same year.<ref>{{cite news | url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/max-india-ltd/infocompanyhistory/companyid-13435.cms | work=The Times Of India | title=Max India Ltd | url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111227030621/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/max-india-ltd/infocompanyhistory/companyid-13435.cms | archive-date=27 December 2011 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> Hutchison Max entered into the [[Delhi]] telecom circle in December 1999, the [[Kolkata]] circle in July 2000 and the [[Gujarat]] circle in September 2000. Licences for these circles had initially been awarded by the DoT in 1994, 1997 and 1995 respectively. Between 1992 and 2006, Hutchison acquired interests in all 23 mobile telecom circles of India.<ref name="BombayHC" />


HMTL was renamed Hutchison Essar Limited (HEL) in August 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://courtnic.nic.in/supremecourt/temp/sc%202652910p.txt|format=TXT|title=Vodafone International Holdings B.V. : Appellant(s) versus Union of India & Anr. : Respondent(s)|publisher=Courtnic.nic.in|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151226022536/http://courtnic.nic.in/supremecourt/temp/sc%202652910p.txt|archive-date=26 December 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref> In Delhi, Uttar Pradesh (East), Rajasthan and Haryana, [[Essar Group]] was the major partner. But later Hutch took the majority stake. By the time of Hutchison Telecom's initial public offering in 2004, Hutchison Whampoa had acquired interests in six mobile telecommunications operators providing service in 13 of India's 23 licence areas and following the completion of the acquisition of BPL Mobile that number increased to 16. In 2006, it announced the acquisition of a company (Essar Spacetel&nbsp;— A subsidiary of Essar Group) that held licence applications for the seven remaining licence areas. Initially, the company grew its business in the largest wireless markets in India&nbsp;— in cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. In these densely populated urban areas it was able to establish a robust network, well-known brand and large distribution network – all vital to long-term success in India. Then it also targeted business users and high-end post-paid customers which helped Hutchison Essar to consistently generate a higher [[Average revenue per user]] (ARPU) than its competitors. By adopting this focused growth plan, it was able to establish leading positions in India's largest markets providing the resources to expand its footprint nationwide. In February 2007, Hutchison Telecom announced that it had entered into a binding agreement with a subsidiary of Vodafone Group Plc to sell its 67% direct and indirect equity and loan interests in Hutchison Essar Limited for a total cash consideration (before costs, expenses and interests) of approximately $11.1 billion. The Acquisition was completed on May 8, 2007.{{citation needed|date=December 2014}}
HMTL was renamed Hutchison Essar (HEL) in August 2005. Following the 2004 initial public offering of Hutchison Telecommunications International (HTIL), the group expanded its footprint to 16 of India's 23 licence areas, further solidified by the acquisition of BPL Mobile.<ref name="HTIL_ANNUAL">{{cite web |title=HTIL Annual Report 2005 - India Operations |url=https://www.ckh.com.hk |publisher=CK Hutchison Holdings |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref> By focusing on high-ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) urban markets such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata, the company established a robust network and a premium brand identity prior to its nationwide expansion.<ref name="FORBES_HUTCH">{{cite news |last=Miller |first=Matthew |title=The Rise of Hutchison Essar |url=https://www.forbes.com |work=Forbes |date=2007-02-11 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>


Hutch was often praised for its award-winning advertisements which all follow a clean, minimalist look. A recurrent theme is that its message "Hi" stands out visibly though it uses only white letters on red background. Another successful ad campaign in 2003 featured a [[Cheeka (dog)|pug named Cheeka]] following a boy around in unlikely places, with the tagline, "Wherever you go, our network follows." The simple yet powerful advertisement campaigns won it many admirers. Advertisements featuring the pug were continued by Vodafone even after rebranding. The brand subsequently introduced [[ZooZoo]]s which gained even higher popularity than was created by the Pug. Vodafone's creative agency is O&M while Harit Nagpal was the Marketing Director during the various phases of its brand evolution.{{citation needed|date=December 2014}}
In February 2007, Vodafone Group Plc entered into a binding agreement to acquire HTIL's 67% stake in Hutchison Essar for approximately $11.1 billion.<ref name="VODA_ACQ">{{cite news |title=Vodafone seals Hutchison Essar deal |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk |work=BBC News |date=2007-02-12 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref> The acquisition was formally completed on 8 May 2007, marking one of the largest foreign direct investment deals in Indian history at the time.<ref name="REUTERS_MAY8">{{cite news |title=Vodafone completes $11 billion acquisition of Hutchison Essar |url=https://www.reuters.com |work=Reuters |date=2007-05-08 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>


===Advertising and Branding===
The brand's marketing strategy, led by Marketing Director Harit Nagpal and creative agency [[Ogilvy (agency)|Ogilvy & Mather]] (O&M), was characterized by a minimalist aesthetic.<ref name="HARIT_MKTG">{{cite news |last=Bhattacharjee |first=S. |title=How Harit Nagpal and O&M built the Hutch brand |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com |work=The Hindu Business Line |date=2010-09-15 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>
In 2003, the company launched an iconic campaign featuring a [[Pug]] named "Cheeka" following a young boy, accompanied by the tagline, "Wherever you go, our network follows."<ref name="PUG_STORY">{{cite news |title=The story of the Hutch Pug: How Cheeka became a household name |url=https://www.afaqs.com |website=Afaqs! |date=2015-11-20 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref> The campaign was so successful that Vodafone continued to use the pug in its advertisements even after the 2007 rebranding.<ref name="ET_PUG">{{cite news |title=Vodafone brings back the pug to signal 4G expansion |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com |work=The Economic Times |date=2016-02-02 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>
During the 2009 [[Indian Premier League]] (IPL), the brand introduced the [[ZooZoo|ZooZoos]]—white, ghost-like creatures with ballooned bodies and egg-shaped heads. These characters, created by O&M's Piyush Pandey and Rajiv Rao, became a cultural phenomenon in India, winning numerous awards for creative excellence and consumer engagement.<ref name="ZOOM_MINT">{{cite news |last=Srivastava |first=S. |title=The evolution of ZooZoos in Indian advertising |url=https://www.livemint.com |work=Mint |date=2012-04-12 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>
===Vodafone purchases Essar's stake===
===Vodafone purchases Essar's stake===
In July 2011, [[Vodafone|Vodafone Group]] bought the mobile phone business of its partner [[Essar Group]] for $5.46 billion. This meant Vodafone owns 74% of Essar.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-13996525|title=BBC News - Vodafone finalises India mobile subsidiary buyout|date=July 2011|work=BBC News|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925141048/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-13996525|archive-date=25 September 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref> On 11 February 2007, Vodafone agreed to acquire the controlling interest of 67% held by [[Li Ka-shing|Li Ka Shing]] Holdings in Hutch-Essar for US$11.1 billion, pipping [[Reliance Communications]], Hinduja Group, and Essar Group, which is the owner of the remaining 33%. The whole company was valued at [[United States dollar|USD]] 18.8 billion.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.ft.com/cms/s/7eaef850-b9e3-11db-89c8-0000779e2340.html |title=/ Companies / Telecoms&nbsp;— Investors welcome Vodafone deal |publisher=Ft.com |access-date= 2009-05-01 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070711020454/http://www.ft.com/cms/s/7eaef850-b9e3-11db-89c8-0000779e2340.html |archive-date=11 July 2007 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The transaction closed on 8 May 2007. In April 2014, India based [[Piramal Group]] sold its 11% Stake in Vodafone India to Prime Metals, an indirect subsidiary of [[Vodafone|Vodafone Group]].<ref>{{cite web |title= Piramal Group to sell Vodafone India stake for Rs. 8900 crore |date= 10 April 2014 |url= http://news.biharprabha.com/2014/04/piramal-group-to-sell-vodafone-india-stake-for-rs-8900-crore/ |publisher= IANS, news.biharprabha.com |access-date= 10 April 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140412142848/http://news.biharprabha.com/2014/04/piramal-group-to-sell-vodafone-india-stake-for-rs-8900-crore/ |archive-date= 12 April 2014 |df=dmy-all}}</ref>
In July 2011, Vodafone Group bought the mobile phone business of its partner Essar Group for $5.46 billion. This meant Vodafone owns 74% of Essar.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-13996525|title=BBC News - Vodafone finalises India mobile subsidiary buyout|date=July 2011|work=BBC News|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925141048/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-13996525|archive-date=25 September 2015|df=dmy-all}}</ref> On 11 February 2007, Vodafone agreed to acquire the controlling interest of 67% held by [[Li Ka-shing|Li Ka Shing]] Holdings in Hutchison Essar for US$11.1 billion, pipping [[Reliance Communications]], Hinduja Group, and Essar Group, which is the owner of the remaining 33%. The whole company was valued at [[United States dollar|USD]] 18.8 billion.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.ft.com/content/7eaef850-b9e3-11db-89c8-0000779e2340 |title=/ Companies / Telecoms&nbsp;— Investors welcome Vodafone deal |publisher=Ft.com |access-date= 2009-05-01 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070711020454/http://www.ft.com/cms/s/7eaef850-b9e3-11db-89c8-0000779e2340.html |archive-date=11 July 2007 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The transaction closed on 8 May 2007. In April 2014, India based [[Piramal Group]] sold its 11% Stake in Vodafone India to Prime Metals, an indirect subsidiary of Vodafone Group.<ref>{{cite web |title= Piramal Group to sell Vodafone India stake for Rs. 8900 crore |date= 10 April 2014 |url= http://news.biharprabha.com/2014/04/piramal-group-to-sell-vodafone-india-stake-for-rs-8900-crore/ |publisher= IANS, news.biharprabha.com |access-date= 10 April 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20140412142848/http://news.biharprabha.com/2014/04/piramal-group-to-sell-vodafone-india-stake-for-rs-8900-crore/ |archive-date= 12 April 2014 |df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date= |title=Company History {{!}} About Vodafone India |url=https://www.vodafone.in/about-us/company-history?section=consumer |access-date=2017-04-29 |website=www.vodafone.in |language=en}}</ref>


=== Vodafone-Hutchison tax case ===
=== Vodafone-Hutchison tax case ===
{{update section|date=September 2020}}
The long-standing tax dispute between Vodafone and the Indian government, stemming from the 2007 acquisition of Hutchison Essar, reached a final resolution in 2021 following international arbitration and legislative reform.
Vodafone was embroiled in a $2.5 billion tax dispute with the Indian Income Tax Department over its purchase of Hutchison Essar Telecom services in April 2007. It was being alleged by the Indian Tax authorities that the transaction involved purchase of assets of an Indian Company, and therefore the transaction, or part thereof was <ref>{{cite web |title= Idea, Vodafone India Announce Merger, to Be Biggest Telecom Operator in India |url= http://profit.ndtv.com/news/industries/article-idea-vodafone-india-announce-merger-to-be-biggest-telecom-operator-in-india-1671247 |website=NDTV |access-date= 20 March 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170320052232/http://profit.ndtv.com/news/industries/article-idea-vodafone-india-announce-merger-to-be-biggest-telecom-operator-in-india-1671247 |archive-date= 20 March 2017 |df= dmy-all}}</ref> liable to be taxed in India.<ref>{{cite web |last=Lamont |first=James |url= http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/19f3ed16-a2f1-11e0-a9a4-00144feabdc0.html#axzz1TaRdrI6x |title= Vodafone warns India tax bill to hit $5bn |publisher= FT.com |date= 2011-06-30 |access-date= 2013-06-15}}</ref>
 
==== International Arbitration (2020) ====
In 2014, Vodafone initiated arbitration under the [[India–Netherlands relations|India–Netherlands]] Bilateral Investment Treaty, contesting the 2012 retrospective tax amendment. On 25 September 2020, the [[Permanent Court of Arbitration]] (PCA) ruled unanimously in favour of Vodafone, stating that the tax demand was a breach of the guarantee of "fair and equitable treatment."<ref name="PCA_IPL">{{cite web |last=Lad |first=Gargi |title=Vodafone Idea arbitration case - iPleaders |url=https://blog.ipleaders.in |website=iPleaders |date=2024-05-20 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref> The tribunal directed India to cease its recovery efforts for the approximately ₹22,100 crore demand.<ref name="PCA_IPL" />
 
==== Repeal of Retrospective Tax (2021) ====
Following the arbitration award and similar international rulings, the Indian Parliament passed the '''Taxation Laws (Amendment) Act, 2021'''. This legislation effectively repealed the 2012 retrospective tax for transactions involving the indirect transfer of Indian assets executed before May 2012.<ref name="PIB_TAX">{{cite web |title=The Taxation Laws (Amendment) Act, 2021 |url=https://www.pib.gov.in |publisher=Press Information Bureau |date=2021-10-01 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref> The law nullified all pending tax demands and provided for the refund of collected taxes without interest, contingent on companies withdrawing all related litigation against the state.<ref name="TCCLR_TAX">{{cite web |title=Scrapping of Retrospective Tax Laws |url=https://www.tcclr.com |website=TCCLR |date=2022-11-06 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>
 
==== Final Closure (2025) ====
In November 2025, the Income Tax Department officially closed the final chapter of the dispute by withdrawing its remaining ₹8,500-crore transfer pricing case against Vodafone India Services before the [[Supreme Court of India]].<ref name="MINT_VOD">{{cite news |title=Income tax department withdraws ₹8,500-crore transfer pricing case against Vodafone |url=https://www.livemint.com |work=Mint |date=2025-11-03 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref><ref name="ANGEL_VOD">{{cite web |title=Income Tax Department Drops ₹8,500 Crore Transfer Pricing Case |url=https://www.angelone.in |website=Angel One |date=2025-11-05 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref> The withdrawal followed judicial developments regarding adjusted gross revenue (AGR) liabilities, marking the end of nearly two decades of litigation.<ref name="CAALLEY">{{cite web |title=I-T drops ₹8,500-crore transfer pricing case |url=https://www.caalley.com |website=CAalley |date=2025-11-04 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>
 
===Merger with Idea Cellular and rebranding===
The entry of [[Jio]] in 2016 led to significant consolidation in the Indian telecom sector.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.livemint.com/Industry/rws5uR2FeOti3o3nU7AirL/The-shakeup-in-Indias-telecom-sector.html|title=The shakeup in India's telecom sector|last=Raj|first=Amrit|date=2017-10-21|work=www.livemint.com|access-date=2018-04-21}}</ref> Following the March 2017 announcement, Vodafone India and [[Idea Cellular]] completed their merger on 31 August 2018, forming [[Vodafone Idea]].<ref name="NCLT nod">{{cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telecom/telecom-news/nclt-gives-go-ahead-to-idea-vodafone-merger/articleshow/65616161.cms |title=NCLT gives go-ahead to Idea-Vodafone merger |last1=Parbat |first1=Kalyan |date=2018-08-31 |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2018-09-01}}</ref> On 7 September 2020, the company rebranded its unified entity as '''Vi''' (pronounced "we").<ref name="VI_REBRAND">{{cite news |title=Vodafone Idea re-brands itself 'Vi' |url=https://indianexpress.com |work=The Indian Express |date=7 September 2020 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>
 
====Shareholding and Government Intervention====
While the company was initially a joint venture between Vodafone Group (45.5%) and [[Aditya Birla Group]] (26%), its ownership structure changed drastically due to financial distress related to Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues.
 
In early 2023, the [[Government of India]] (GoI) converted ₹16,133 crore of interest dues into a 33.1% equity stake.<ref name="REUTERS_GOI">{{cite news |title=India asks Vodafone Idea to convert nearly $2 bln in govt dues into equity |url=https://www.reuters.com |work=Reuters |date=3 February 2023 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref> By April 2025, the government further increased its stake to **48.99%** by converting an additional ₹36,950 crore of spectrum and AGR dues into equity, making it the single largest shareholder.<ref name="GOI_49">{{cite web |title=Govt Stake In Vodafone Idea Rises To 49% |url=https://www.angelone.in/news/share-market/government-to-cap-stake-in-vodafone-idea-at-49-percent-confirms-telecom-minister |website=Angel One |date=3 July 2025 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>


Vodafone Group Plc. entered India in 2007 through a subsidiary based in the Netherlands, which acquired [[Hutchison Asia Telecom Group|Hutchison Asia Telecom Group’s]] (HAT) stake in Hutchison Essar Ltd (HEL)—the joint venture that held and operated telecom licences in India. This [[Cayman Islands]] transaction, along with several related agreements, gave Vodafone control over 67% of HEL and extinguished Hong Kong-based Hutchison’s rights of control in India, a deal that cost the world’s largest telco $11.2 billion at the time.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.forbes.com/2007/05/10/vodafone-hutch-sale-markets-equity-cx_rd_0510markets1.html#582d481d3bef |access-date= 11 November 2017 |title= Vodafone Completes Hutchison Essar Deal |website= [[Forbes]] |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130212221410/http://www.forbes.com/2007/05/10/vodafone-hutch-sale-markets-equity-cx_rd_0510markets1.html#582d481d3bef |archive-date= 12 February 2013 |df=dmy-all}}</ref>
As of February 2026, the shareholding pattern is as follows:
* '''Government of India:''' 48.99% (Non-promoter largest shareholder)<ref name="MC_GOI_49">{{cite web |title=Govt Holds 49% In Vodafone Idea, Won't Enter Management |url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/we-do-not-want-to-increase-our-stake-beyond-49-in-vodafone-idea-telecom-minister-jyotiraditya-scindia-13845389.html |website=Moneycontrol |date=27 February 2026 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>
* '''Promoter Group (Vodafone & Birla):''' 25.57% (Retain operational management control)<ref name="CHOICE_SHARE">{{cite web |title=Vodafone Idea Shareholding Pattern 2026 |url=https://choiceindia.com/stocks/vodafone-idea-ltd-shareholding-pattern |website=Choice India |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>
* '''Public & Others:''' 25.44%<ref name="TELTALK_OWN">{{cite web |title=Vodafone Idea: Who Owns How Much Stake in the Company Now |url=https://telecomtalk.info/vodafone-idea-who-owns-how-much-stake/992808/ |website=TelecomTalk |date=14 April 2025 |access-date=2026-02-27}}</ref>


In January 2012, the [[Supreme Court of India]] passed the judgement in favour of Vodafone, saying that the Indian Income tax department had "no jurisdiction" to levy tax on overseas transaction between companies incorporated outside India. However, Indian government thinks otherwise. It believes that if an Indian company, Hutchison India Ltd., conducts a financial transaction, then the government should get its tax from it. Therefore, in 2012, India changed its Income Tax Act retroactively and made sure that any company, in similar circumstances, is not able to avoid tax by operating out of tax-havens like the Cayman Islands or Lichtenstein. In May 2012, Indian authorities confirmed that they were going to charge Vodafone about {{INR}}20,000 crore (US $3.3 billion) in tax and fines. The second phase of the dispute is about to start.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Vodafone-Hutchison-deal-Vodafone-wins-Rs-11000-crore-tax-case/articleshow/11566027.cms |work=The Times Of India |title= Vodafone-Hutchison deal: Vodafone wins Rs 11,000 crore tax case - The Times of India |url-status=live | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120120123543/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Vodafone-Hutchison-deal-Vodafone-wins-Rs-11000-crore-tax-case/articleshow/11566027.cms |archive-date= 20 January 2012 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The Bombay high court on Thursday directed the Income-Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) to hear a Rs.8,600 crore transfer-pricing tax dispute relating to the Indian arm of Vodafone Group Plc from 21 February on a daily basis till a final order is passed.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/Vodafone-wins-transfer-pricing-tax-dispute-case/article10145274.ece|title=Vodafone wins transfer pricing tax dispute case|access-date=12 November 2017|work=The Hindu|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171112065545/http://www.thehindu.com/business/Industry/Vodafone-wins-transfer-pricing-tax-dispute-case/article10145274.ece|archive-date=12 November 2017|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
Despite its large stake, the government has officially stated it has no plans to intervene in management or increase its holding beyond 49%.<ref name="MC_GOI_49" />


===Merger with Idea Cellular===
==You Broadband==
[[File:YOU Broadband logo.jpg|thumb|'''YOU Broadband''']]


The entry of [[Jio]] in 2016 had led to various [[List of telecom companies in India#Defunct operators|mergers and consolidations]] in the Indian telecom sector.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.livemint.com/Industry/rws5uR2FeOti3o3nU7AirL/The-shakeup-in-Indias-telecom-sector.html|title=The shakeup in India's telecom sector|last=Raj|first=Amrit|date=2017-10-21|work=www.livemint.com|access-date=2018-04-21}}</ref> It was announced in March 2017 that even [[Idea Cellular]] and Vodafone India would be merged. The merger got approval from Department Of Telecommunications in July 2018. On August 30, 2018, [[National Company Law Tribunal]] gave the final nod to the Vodafone-Idea merger <ref name="NCLT nod">{{Cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/telecom/telecom-news/nclt-gives-go-ahead-to-idea-vodafone-merger/articleshow/65616161.cms |title=NCLT gives go-ahead to Idea-Vodafone merger |last1=Parbat |first1=Kalyan |date=2018-08-31 |work=The Economic Times |access-date=2018-09-01 |last2=Sengupta |first2=Devina}}</ref>  The merger was completed on 31 August 2018, and the newly merged entity was named [[Vodafone Idea|Vodafone Idea (Vi)]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Idea approves merger with Vodafone India, to create India's largest telco|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/companies-a-z/corporate-trends/idea-approves-merger-with-vodafone-india-to-create-indias-largest-telco/articleshow/57726194.cms|website=The Economic Times|access-date=20 March 2017|last1=Guha |first1=Romit }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Kurup|first1=Rajesh|title=Idea Cellular board approves merger with Vodafone India; shares tank 9%|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/idea-cellular-board-approves-merger-with-vodafone-india/article9591707.ece|website=The Hindu Business Line|access-date=20 March 2017|language=en|date=20 March 2017}}</ref><ref name="BSE Disclosure">{{cite web |title=Disclosure under Regulation 30 of SEBI (LODR) Regulations, 2015 |url=https://www.bseindia.com/xml-data/corpfiling/AttachLive/30efb0f1-67b4-40d7-b7e8-d1c60104dd50.pdf |website=BSE |publisher=BSE |access-date=31 August 2018}}</ref> The merger created the largest telecom company in India by subscribers and by revenue. Under the terms of the deal, the Vodafone Group holds a 45.2% stake in the combined entity, the Aditya Birla Group holds 26% and the remaining shares will be held by the public.<ref name="BSE Disclosure" />
'''YOU Broadband''' (formerly '''YOU Telecom''' and originally '''Iqara Telecom''') is an [[India|Indian]] [[telecommunications company]] founded by [[British Gas]] and, since 2017, owned by Vodafone India, which offers [[fixed-line]] [[broadband]] ([[FTTH]]) and voice services ([[VoIP]]) in indian major cities which includes [[Ahmedabad]], [[Aurangabad]], [[Bengaluru]], [[Chennai]], [[Gurugram]], [[Hyderabad]], [[Kakinada]], [[Mumbai]], [[Nagpur]], [[Nashik]], [[Navi Mumbai]], [[Navsari]], [[Powai]], [[Pune]], [[Rajkot]], [[Surat]], [[Thane]], [[Vadodara]], [[Valsad]], [[Vapi]], [[Vijayawada]] and [[Visakhapatnam]].<ref>{{Cite web |date= |title=YOU Broadband India Limited |url=https://www.youbroadband.in/aboutus/aboutus_history.php |access-date=2017-09-24 |website=www.youbroadband.in |language=en}}</ref>


==Mobile network==
==Mobile network==
Since 2011, Vodafone launched [[3G]] network using 900MHz and 2100MHz. The first city to receive 3G service was [[Lucknow]] in [[Uttar Pradesh]].


Since 2011, Vodafone launched [[3G]] network using 900&nbsp;MHz and 2100&nbsp;MHz. The first city to receive 3G service was Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh.
[[M-Pesa]], was launched in [[India]]<ref name="India Launch Desire">{{cite web|url=http://www.mbuguanjihia.com/2009/what-you-dont-now-about-mpesa.html|title=What you dont now about Mpesa…|date=15 July 2009 |publisher=The mind of Mbugua Njihia|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121101095655/http://www.mbuguanjihia.com/2009/what-you-dont-now-about-mpesa.html|archive-date=1 November 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref name="dfid_india">{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNrDv4PQdCc|title=Mobile phone banking in Africa|date=9 May 2008 |publisher=YouTube|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141011114821/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNrDv4PQdCc|archive-date=11 October 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref> as a close partnership with [[HDFC Bank]] in November 2011.<ref name="HDFC Launch">[http://www.medianama.com/2011/11/223-vodafone-m-paisa/ HDFC Launch] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416210056/http://www.medianama.com/2011/11/223-vodafone-m-paisa/ |date=16 April 2014 }}. "HDFC Launch". Retrieved 28 June 2012</ref><ref name="ICICI Bank">[http://www.medianama.com/2011/01/223-icici-bank-future-atms-all-banks-all-telcos/ ICICI Bank] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416180717/http://www.medianama.com/2011/01/223-icici-bank-future-atms-all-banks-all-telcos/ |date=16 April 2014 }}. "ICICI Bank". Retrieved 28 June 2012</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Russell|first=Jon|title=Vodafone launches M-Pesa mobile banking service in India, targeting 700m 'unbanked' people|url=https://thenextweb.com/in/2013/04/17/vodafone-launches-m-pesa-mobile-banking-service-in-india-targets-700m-unbanked-people/|access-date=20 April 2013|newspaper=The Next Web|date=17 April 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130421015837/http://thenextweb.com/in/2013/04/17/vodafone-launches-m-pesa-mobile-banking-service-in-india-targets-700m-unbanked-people/|archive-date=21 April 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://gadgets.ndtv.com/telecom/news/vodafone-to-bring-m-pesa-service-to-20000-customers-in-mp-500891|title=Vodafone to bring M-Pesa service to 20,000 customers in MP|date=27 March 2014 |publisher=NDTV Gadgets|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224173457/http://gadgets.ndtv.com/telecom/news/vodafone-to-bring-m-pesa-service-to-20000-customers-in-mp-500891|archive-date=24 December 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/info-tech/vodafone-launches-money-transfer-service-mpesa-in-delhi/article5044945.ece?ref=relatedNews|title=Vodafone launches money transfer service 'm-pesa' in Delhi|author=PTI|publisher=The Hindu Business Line|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141011114839/http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/info-tech/vodafone-launches-money-transfer-service-mpesa-in-delhi/article5044945.ece?ref=relatedNews|archive-date=11 October 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://moneysaverindia.com/finance/ignore-both-airtel-money-and-m-pesa/ |title= Ignore both Airtel Money and M-Pesa |publisher= Moneysaverindia.com |access-date= 24 December 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141228060638/http://moneysaverindia.com/finance/ignore-both-airtel-money-and-m-pesa/|archive-date=28 December 2014 |df=dmy-all}}</ref>
 
[[M-Pesa]], was launched in [[India]]<ref name="India Launch Desire">{{cite web|url=http://www.mbuguanjihia.com/2009/what-you-dont-now-about-mpesa.html|title=What you dont now about Mpesa…|date=15 July 2009 |publisher=The mind of Mbugua Njihia|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121101095655/http://www.mbuguanjihia.com/2009/what-you-dont-now-about-mpesa.html|archive-date=1 November 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref name="dfid_india">{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNrDv4PQdCc|title=Mobile phone banking in Africa|publisher=YouTube|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141011114821/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNrDv4PQdCc|archive-date=11 October 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref> as a close partnership with [[HDFC Bank|HDFC]] bank in November 2011.<ref name="HDFC Launch">[http://www.medianama.com/2011/11/223-vodafone-m-paisa/ HDFC Launch] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416210056/http://www.medianama.com/2011/11/223-vodafone-m-paisa/ |date=16 April 2014 }}. "HDFC Launch". Retrieved 28 June 2012</ref><ref name="ICICI Bank">[http://www.medianama.com/2011/01/223-icici-bank-future-atms-all-banks-all-telcos/ ICICI Bank] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416180717/http://www.medianama.com/2011/01/223-icici-bank-future-atms-all-banks-all-telcos/ |date=16 April 2014 }}. "ICICI Bank". Retrieved 28 June 2012</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Russell|first=Jon|title=Vodafone launches M-Pesa mobile banking service in India, targeting 700m 'unbanked' people|url=https://thenextweb.com/in/2013/04/17/vodafone-launches-m-pesa-mobile-banking-service-in-india-targets-700m-unbanked-people/|access-date=20 April 2013|newspaper=The Next Web|date=17 April 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130421015837/http://thenextweb.com/in/2013/04/17/vodafone-launches-m-pesa-mobile-banking-service-in-india-targets-700m-unbanked-people/|archive-date=21 April 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://gadgets.ndtv.com/telecom/news/vodafone-to-bring-m-pesa-service-to-20000-customers-in-mp-500891|title=Vodafone to bring M-Pesa service to 20,000 customers in MP|publisher=NDTV Gadgets|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224173457/http://gadgets.ndtv.com/telecom/news/vodafone-to-bring-m-pesa-service-to-20000-customers-in-mp-500891|archive-date=24 December 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/info-tech/vodafone-launches-money-transfer-service-mpesa-in-delhi/article5044945.ece?ref=relatedNews|title=Vodafone launches money transfer service 'm-pesa' in Delhi|author=PTI|publisher=The Hindu Business Line|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141011114839/http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/info-tech/vodafone-launches-money-transfer-service-mpesa-in-delhi/article5044945.ece?ref=relatedNews|archive-date=11 October 2014|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://moneysaverindia.com/finance/ignore-both-airtel-money-and-m-pesa/ |title= Ignore both Airtel Money and M-Pesa |publisher= Moneysaverindia.com |access-date= 24 December 2014 |url-status=live |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141228060638/http://moneysaverindia.com/finance/ignore-both-airtel-money-and-m-pesa/|archive-date=28 December 2014 |df=dmy-all}}</ref>


On 28 June 2012, Vodafone launched a new international roaming package under which the users shall have not to pay multiple rentals in the countries they are visiting.<ref>{{cite news| url= http://www.hindustantimes.com/technology/PersonalTech-Updates/Vodafone-India-offers-new-international-roaming-pack/SP-Article1-880053.aspx| title= Vodafone India offers new international roaming pack| date= 28 June 2012| url-status= dead| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120628205720/http://www.hindustantimes.com/technology/PersonalTech-Updates/Vodafone-India-offers-new-international-roaming-pack/SP-Article1-880053.aspx| archive-date= 28 June 2012| df= dmy-all| access-date= 28 June 2012}}</ref>
On 28 June 2012, Vodafone launched a new international [[roaming]] package under which the users shall have not to pay multiple rentals in the countries they are visiting.<ref>{{cite news| url= http://www.hindustantimes.com/technology/PersonalTech-Updates/Vodafone-India-offers-new-international-roaming-pack/SP-Article1-880053.aspx| title= Vodafone India offers new international roaming pack| date= 28 June 2012| url-status= dead| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120628205720/http://www.hindustantimes.com/technology/PersonalTech-Updates/Vodafone-India-offers-new-international-roaming-pack/SP-Article1-880053.aspx| archive-date= 28 June 2012| df= dmy-all| access-date= 28 June 2012}}</ref>


On 19 May 2015, TRAI announced that Vodafone had been awarded spectrum in 9 circles for 3G coverage, bidding around {{INR}} 11617.86 million (the second highest amount in the auctions) for the spectrum.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.medianama.com/2010/05/223-3g-auction-india-ends-provisional-winners/|title=India's 3G Auction Ends; Operator And Circle-Wise Results|publisher=MediaNama|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100825194632/http://www.medianama.com/2010/05/223-3g-auction-india-ends-provisional-winners/|archive-date=25 August 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
On 19 May 2015, [[Telecom Regulatory Authority of India|TRAI]] announced that Vodafone had been awarded spectrum in 9 circles for 3G coverage, bidding around {{INR}} 11617.86 million (the second highest amount in the auctions) for the spectrum.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.medianama.com/2010/05/223-3g-auction-india-ends-provisional-winners/|title=India's 3G Auction Ends; Operator And Circle-Wise Results|date=19 May 2010 |publisher=MediaNama|access-date=24 December 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100825194632/http://www.medianama.com/2010/05/223-3g-auction-india-ends-provisional-winners/|archive-date=25 August 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


On 8 December 2015, Vodafone announced the roll out of its 4G LTE coverage in India on 1.8&nbsp;GHz and 2.1&nbsp;GHz bands starting from [[Kochi]]. The service became available to customers in India nationally in 2017, with plans for further expansion. Vodafone now starts 2100Mhz and 2500&nbsp;MHz for 4G by which customers will get superior 4G speed than previous.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://m.gadgets.ndtv.com/telecom/news/vodafone-india-to-rollout-4g-services-starting-from-kochi-on-monday-775301 |title=Vodafone India to Rollout 4G Services Starting from Kochi on Monday |access-date=2016-10-18 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160518155134/http://m.gadgets.ndtv.com/telecom/news/vodafone-india-to-rollout-4g-services-starting-from-kochi-on-monday-775301 |archive-date=18 May 2016 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
On 8 December 2015, Vodafone announced the roll out of its [[4G]] coverage in India on 1.8&nbsp;GHz and 2.1&nbsp;GHz bands starting from [[Kochi]]. The service became available to customers in India nationally in 2017, with plans for further expansion. Vodafone now starts 2100Mhz and 2500&nbsp;MHz for 4G by which customers will get superior 4G speed than previous.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://m.gadgets.ndtv.com/telecom/news/vodafone-india-to-rollout-4g-services-starting-from-kochi-on-monday-775301 |title=Vodafone India to Rollout 4G Services Starting from Kochi on Monday |access-date=2016-10-18 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160518155134/http://m.gadgets.ndtv.com/telecom/news/vodafone-india-to-rollout-4g-services-starting-from-kochi-on-monday-775301 |archive-date=18 May 2016 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>


===VoLTE===
===VoLTE===
Vodafone India had started rolling its 4G [[VoLTE]] services in the country under the tag Vodafone Super Volte. Gujarat was the first circle to receive that service. Before the merger with [[Vodafone Idea]] the circles where the company was providing VoLTE were:
Vodafone India had started rolling its [[Voice over Long-Term Evolution|VoLTE]] services in the country under the tag Vodafone Super VoLTE. Gujarat was the first circle to receive that service. Before the merger with [[Vodafone Idea]] the circles where the company was providing VoLTE were:


*[[West Bengal]]<ref name="discover.vodafone.in">{{Cite web|url=https://discover.vodafone.in/super-volte-4g-hd-voice-calls|title=Vodafone Super VoLTE Network {{!}} 4G VoLTE (Voice Over LTE) for HD Voice Calls {{!}} Vodafone India|website=discover.vodafone.in|language=en-US|access-date=2018-11-10}}</ref>
* [[West Bengal]]<ref name="discover.vodafone.in">{{Cite web|url=https://discover.vodafone.in/super-volte-4g-hd-voice-calls|title=Vodafone Super VoLTE Network {{!}} 4G VoLTE (Voice Over LTE) for HD Voice Calls {{!}} Vodafone India|website=discover.vodafone.in|language=en-US|access-date=2018-11-10}}</ref>
*[[Assam]]<ref name="discover.vodafone.in"/>
* [[Assam]]<ref name="discover.vodafone.in"/>
*[[Gujarat]]
* [[Gujarat]]
* [[National Capital Region (India)|Delhi & NCR]]
* [[National Capital Region (India)|Delhi & NCR]]
* [[Haryana]]
* [[Haryana]]
Line 70: Line 104:
* [[Mumbai]]
* [[Mumbai]]
* [[Rajasthan]]
* [[Rajasthan]]
* [[Uttar Pradesh|UP(W)]]
* [[Western Uttar Pradesh|UP (W)]]
* [[Uttar Pradesh|UP(E)]]
* [[Eastern Uttar Pradesh|UP (E)]]
* [[Punjab, India|Punjab]]
* [[Punjab, India|Punjab]]
* [[Kerala]]
* [[Kerala]]
Line 78: Line 112:


==Awards and recognition==
==Awards and recognition==
 
* LinkedIn Top Attractors 2017 Award- Vodafone India ranked 20th<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/linkedin-top-companies-2017-where-india-wants-work-now-adith-charlie/|title=LinkedIn Top Companies 2017: Where India wants to work now|date=2017-05-18|access-date=2018-06-13|language=en}}</ref>
*LinkedIn Top Attractors 2017 Award- Vodafone India ranked 20th<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/linkedin-top-companies-2017-where-india-wants-work-now-adith-charlie/|title=LinkedIn Top Companies 2017: Where India wants to work now|date=2017-05-18|access-date=2018-06-13|language=en}}</ref>
* CIO Choice 2018  Award winner- Vodafone Business Services recognized as the chosen leader for Telecom Carrier - Leased Lines & Mobile Access <ref>{{Cite news|url=http://cio-choice.in/recognized-brands/2018-recognized-brands/|title=2018 Recognized Brands - CIO CHOICE|work=CIO CHOICE|access-date=2018-06-13|language=en-US}}</ref>
*CIO Choice 2018  Award winner- Vodafone Business Services recognized as the chosen leader for Telecom Carrier - Leased Lines & Mobile Access <ref>{{Cite news|url=http://cio-choice.in/recognized-brands/2018-recognized-brands/|title=2018 Recognized Brands - CIO CHOICE|work=CIO CHOICE|access-date=2018-06-13|language=en-US}}</ref>
* The Brand Trust Report,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.financialexpress.com/news/a-matter-of-trust/747288/ |title=A Matter of Trust |date=8 February 2011 |publisher=Financialexpress.com |access-date=2013-06-15 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130111141244/http://www.financialexpress.com/news/a-matter-of-trust/747288 |archive-date=11 January 2013 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> 2011 published by Trust Research Advisory has ranked Vodafone<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/business/slide-show/slide-show-1-indias-50-most-trusted-brands/20110120.htm |title=India's most trusted brands - Rediff.com Business |work=Rediff.com |date=2011-01-20 |access-date=2013-06-15 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130527150055/http://www.rediff.com/business/slide-show/slide-show-1-indias-50-most-trusted-brands/20110120.htm |archive-date=27 May 2013 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> as the 16th most trusted brand in India.
*The Brand Trust Report,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.financialexpress.com/news/a-matter-of-trust/747288/ |title=A Matter of Trust |publisher=Financialexpress.com |access-date=2013-06-15 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130111141244/http://www.financialexpress.com/news/a-matter-of-trust/747288 |archive-date=11 January 2013 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> 2011 published by Trust Research Advisory has ranked Vodafone<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/business/slide-show/slide-show-1-indias-50-most-trusted-brands/20110120.htm |title=India's most trusted brands - Rediff.com Business |work=Rediff.com |date=2011-01-20 |access-date=2013-06-15 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130527150055/http://www.rediff.com/business/slide-show/slide-show-1-indias-50-most-trusted-brands/20110120.htm |archive-date=27 May 2013 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> as the 16th most trusted brand in India.
* Flame Awards Asia 2017 for #Saluteourfarmers campaign: Silver for the Best Farmer Connect initiative and Bronze for the Best use of Social Media
* Flame Awards Asia 2017 for #Saluteourfarmers campaign: Silver for the Best Farmer Connect initiative and Bronze for the Best use of Social Media
*Aegis Graham Bell Awards 2017: Vodafone Business Services for Innovative Marketing Campaign for the Ready Business CampaignAegis Graham Bell Awards 2017 and Vodafone Business Services for Innovative Marketing Campaign for the Ready Business Campaign
* Aegis Graham Bell Awards 2017: Vodafone Business Services for Innovative Marketing Campaign for the Ready Business CampaignAegis Graham Bell Awards 2017 and Vodafone Business Services for Innovative Marketing Campaign for the Ready Business Campaign
*Voice and Data Telecom Leadership Awards 2015:Special leadership recognition to: Vodafone RED for marketing
* Voice and Data Telecom Leadership Awards 2015:Special leadership recognition to: Vodafone RED for marketing


== See also ==
==See also==
 
{{Commons category}}
* [[Vodafone Idea|Vodafone Idea (Vi)]]
* [[Essar Group]]
* [[Hutchison Telecommunications International]]
* [[Idea Cellular]]
* [[Max Group]]
* [[Orange (India)]]
* [[Vodafone]]
* [[Vodafone]]
* [[Airtel India]]
* [[Vodafone Belvedere Towers metro station]]
* [[Hutchison Asia Telecom Group|Hutchison Essar]]
* [[Vodafone Idea]]
* [[Belvedere Towers metro station|Vodafone Belvedere Towers metro station]]
* [[Jio]]


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}
{{reflist|30em}}


==External links==
==External links==
* {{official website}}
* {{Official website|}}


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{{Vodafone}}
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{{Telecommunication companies of India}}
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Vodafone India}}
[[Category:Companies based in Mumbai]]
[[Category:Telecommunications companies of India]]
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[[Category:Companies based in Mumbai]]
[[Category:Indian companies established in 1992]]
[[Category:Telecommunications companies established in 1994]]
[[Category:Telecommunications companies established in 1992]]
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Latest revision as of 16:46, 27 February 2026


This article is about the previous Indian mobile telecommunications company supported by Vodafone. For the successor (and current) company, see Vodafone Idea.
Vodafone India Limited
Formerly
Hutchison Max Telecom Limited (1992-2005)
Hutchison Essar Limited (2005-2007)
Vodafone Essar Limited (2007-2011)
IndustryTelecommunications
FateMerged with Idea Cellular into Vodafone Idea
SuccessorVodafone Idea[1]
FoundedFebruary 21, 1992; 34 years ago (1992-02-21)
Founder(s)
DefunctAugust 31, 2018 (2018-08-31) (as a company) September 7, 2020 (2020-09-07) (as a brand)
Headquarters
Mumbai
,
India
Area served
India
ServicesMobile telephony
Internet
OwnerVodafone (100%)
ParentVodafone Group
SubsidiariesYOU Broadband (100%)

Vodafone India was the Indian subsidiary of United Kingdom-based Vodafone Group and was a provider of telecommunications services in India with its operational head office in Mumbai.[2]

As of March 2018, Vodafone India had a market share of 21%,[3] and with its merger with Idea, the collective Vodafone Idea network has approximately 375 million subscribers and is the third largest mobile telecommunications network in India.[4]

History[edit | edit source]

Further information: Orange (India) and Hutchison Telecommunications International

Hutchison Max Telecom (HMTL), a joint venture between Hutchison Whampoa and the Max Group, was established on 21 February 1992.[5] The licence to operate in Bombay circle was awarded to Hutchison Max by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in November 1994.[6] The mobile service branded "Max Touch" was launched the same year.[7] Hutchison Max entered into the Delhi telecom circle in December 1999, the Kolkata circle in July 2000 and the Gujarat circle in September 2000. Licences for these circles had initially been awarded by the DoT in 1994, 1997 and 1995 respectively. Between 1992 and 2006, Hutchison acquired interests in all 23 mobile telecom circles of India.[6]

HMTL was renamed Hutchison Essar (HEL) in August 2005. Following the 2004 initial public offering of Hutchison Telecommunications International (HTIL), the group expanded its footprint to 16 of India's 23 licence areas, further solidified by the acquisition of BPL Mobile.[8] By focusing on high-ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) urban markets such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata, the company established a robust network and a premium brand identity prior to its nationwide expansion.[9]

In February 2007, Vodafone Group Plc entered into a binding agreement to acquire HTIL's 67% stake in Hutchison Essar for approximately $11.1 billion.[10] The acquisition was formally completed on 8 May 2007, marking one of the largest foreign direct investment deals in Indian history at the time.[11]

Advertising and Branding[edit | edit source]

The brand's marketing strategy, led by Marketing Director Harit Nagpal and creative agency Ogilvy & Mather (O&M), was characterized by a minimalist aesthetic.[12]

In 2003, the company launched an iconic campaign featuring a Pug named "Cheeka" following a young boy, accompanied by the tagline, "Wherever you go, our network follows."[13] The campaign was so successful that Vodafone continued to use the pug in its advertisements even after the 2007 rebranding.[14]

During the 2009 Indian Premier League (IPL), the brand introduced the ZooZoos—white, ghost-like creatures with ballooned bodies and egg-shaped heads. These characters, created by O&M's Piyush Pandey and Rajiv Rao, became a cultural phenomenon in India, winning numerous awards for creative excellence and consumer engagement.[15]

Vodafone purchases Essar's stake[edit | edit source]

In July 2011, Vodafone Group bought the mobile phone business of its partner Essar Group for $5.46 billion. This meant Vodafone owns 74% of Essar.[16] On 11 February 2007, Vodafone agreed to acquire the controlling interest of 67% held by Li Ka Shing Holdings in Hutchison Essar for US$11.1 billion, pipping Reliance Communications, Hinduja Group, and Essar Group, which is the owner of the remaining 33%. The whole company was valued at USD 18.8 billion.[17] The transaction closed on 8 May 2007. In April 2014, India based Piramal Group sold its 11% Stake in Vodafone India to Prime Metals, an indirect subsidiary of Vodafone Group.[18][19]

Vodafone-Hutchison tax case[edit | edit source]

The long-standing tax dispute between Vodafone and the Indian government, stemming from the 2007 acquisition of Hutchison Essar, reached a final resolution in 2021 following international arbitration and legislative reform.

International Arbitration (2020)[edit | edit source]

In 2014, Vodafone initiated arbitration under the India–Netherlands Bilateral Investment Treaty, contesting the 2012 retrospective tax amendment. On 25 September 2020, the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruled unanimously in favour of Vodafone, stating that the tax demand was a breach of the guarantee of "fair and equitable treatment."[20] The tribunal directed India to cease its recovery efforts for the approximately ₹22,100 crore demand.[20]

Repeal of Retrospective Tax (2021)[edit | edit source]

Following the arbitration award and similar international rulings, the Indian Parliament passed the Taxation Laws (Amendment) Act, 2021. This legislation effectively repealed the 2012 retrospective tax for transactions involving the indirect transfer of Indian assets executed before May 2012.[21] The law nullified all pending tax demands and provided for the refund of collected taxes without interest, contingent on companies withdrawing all related litigation against the state.[22]

Final Closure (2025)[edit | edit source]

In November 2025, the Income Tax Department officially closed the final chapter of the dispute by withdrawing its remaining ₹8,500-crore transfer pricing case against Vodafone India Services before the Supreme Court of India.[23][24] The withdrawal followed judicial developments regarding adjusted gross revenue (AGR) liabilities, marking the end of nearly two decades of litigation.[25]

Merger with Idea Cellular and rebranding[edit | edit source]

The entry of Jio in 2016 led to significant consolidation in the Indian telecom sector.[26] Following the March 2017 announcement, Vodafone India and Idea Cellular completed their merger on 31 August 2018, forming Vodafone Idea.[1] On 7 September 2020, the company rebranded its unified entity as Vi (pronounced "we").[27]

Shareholding and Government Intervention[edit | edit source]

While the company was initially a joint venture between Vodafone Group (45.5%) and Aditya Birla Group (26%), its ownership structure changed drastically due to financial distress related to Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues.

In early 2023, the Government of India (GoI) converted ₹16,133 crore of interest dues into a 33.1% equity stake.[28] By April 2025, the government further increased its stake to **48.99%** by converting an additional ₹36,950 crore of spectrum and AGR dues into equity, making it the single largest shareholder.[29]

As of February 2026, the shareholding pattern is as follows:

  • Government of India: 48.99% (Non-promoter largest shareholder)[30]
  • Promoter Group (Vodafone & Birla): 25.57% (Retain operational management control)[31]
  • Public & Others: 25.44%[32]

Despite its large stake, the government has officially stated it has no plans to intervene in management or increase its holding beyond 49%.[30]

You Broadband[edit | edit source]

YOU Broadband

YOU Broadband (formerly YOU Telecom and originally Iqara Telecom) is an Indian telecommunications company founded by British Gas and, since 2017, owned by Vodafone India, which offers fixed-line broadband (FTTH) and voice services (VoIP) in indian major cities which includes Ahmedabad, Aurangabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Gurugram, Hyderabad, Kakinada, Mumbai, Nagpur, Nashik, Navi Mumbai, Navsari, Powai, Pune, Rajkot, Surat, Thane, Vadodara, Valsad, Vapi, Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam.[33]

Mobile network[edit | edit source]

Since 2011, Vodafone launched 3G network using 900MHz and 2100MHz. The first city to receive 3G service was Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh.

M-Pesa, was launched in India[34][35] as a close partnership with HDFC Bank in November 2011.[36][37][38][39][40][41]

On 28 June 2012, Vodafone launched a new international roaming package under which the users shall have not to pay multiple rentals in the countries they are visiting.[42]

On 19 May 2015, TRAI announced that Vodafone had been awarded spectrum in 9 circles for 3G coverage, bidding around ₹ 11617.86 million (the second highest amount in the auctions) for the spectrum.[43]

On 8 December 2015, Vodafone announced the roll out of its 4G coverage in India on 1.8 GHz and 2.1 GHz bands starting from Kochi. The service became available to customers in India nationally in 2017, with plans for further expansion. Vodafone now starts 2100Mhz and 2500 MHz for 4G by which customers will get superior 4G speed than previous.[44]

VoLTE[edit | edit source]

Vodafone India had started rolling its VoLTE services in the country under the tag Vodafone Super VoLTE. Gujarat was the first circle to receive that service. Before the merger with Vodafone Idea the circles where the company was providing VoLTE were:

Awards and recognition[edit | edit source]

  • LinkedIn Top Attractors 2017 Award- Vodafone India ranked 20th[46]
  • CIO Choice 2018  Award winner- Vodafone Business Services recognized as the chosen leader for Telecom Carrier - Leased Lines & Mobile Access [47]
  • The Brand Trust Report,[48] 2011 published by Trust Research Advisory has ranked Vodafone[49] as the 16th most trusted brand in India.
  • Flame Awards Asia 2017 for #Saluteourfarmers campaign: Silver for the Best Farmer Connect initiative and Bronze for the Best use of Social Media
  • Aegis Graham Bell Awards 2017: Vodafone Business Services for Innovative Marketing Campaign for the Ready Business CampaignAegis Graham Bell Awards 2017 and Vodafone Business Services for Innovative Marketing Campaign for the Ready Business Campaign
  • Voice and Data Telecom Leadership Awards 2015:Special leadership recognition to: Vodafone RED for marketing

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Parbat, Kalyan (31 August 2018). "NCLT gives go-ahead to Idea-Vodafone merger". The Economic Times. Retrieved 1 September 2018.
  2. ↑ "About Vodafone India Limited - India?s Largest Telecom Company". www.vodafone.in. Retrieved 29 April 2017.
  3. ↑ Parbat, Kalyan (12 June 2018). "Reliance Jio third-largest telecom by revenue market share". The Economic Times. Retrieved 13 June 2018.
  4. ↑ Abbas, Muntazir (16 May 2018). "Vodafone India revenue drops 29% in FY18". The Economic Times. Retrieved 13 June 2018.
  5. ↑ "Hutchison Max Telecom Limited information". Corporatedir.com. Archived from the original on 24 December 2014. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 "THE HIGH COURT OF JUDICATURE AT BOMBAY - WRIT PETITION NO.1325 OF 2010" (PDF). Bombay High Court. Archived (PDF) from the original on 5 January 2012. Retrieved 19 November 2013.
  7. ↑ "Max India Ltd". The Times Of India. Archived from the original on 27 December 2011.
  8. ↑ "HTIL Annual Report 2005 - India Operations". CK Hutchison Holdings. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  9. ↑ Miller, Matthew (11 February 2007). "The Rise of Hutchison Essar". Forbes. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  10. ↑ "Vodafone seals Hutchison Essar deal". BBC News. 12 February 2007. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  11. ↑ "Vodafone completes $11 billion acquisition of Hutchison Essar". Reuters. 8 May 2007. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  12. ↑ Bhattacharjee, S. (15 September 2010). "How Harit Nagpal and O&M built the Hutch brand". The Hindu Business Line. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  13. ↑ "The story of the Hutch Pug: How Cheeka became a household name". Afaqs!. 20 November 2015. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  14. ↑ "Vodafone brings back the pug to signal 4G expansion". The Economic Times. 2 February 2016. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  15. ↑ Srivastava, S. (12 April 2012). "The evolution of ZooZoos in Indian advertising". Mint. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  16. ↑ "BBC News - Vodafone finalises India mobile subsidiary buyout". BBC News. July 2011. Archived from the original on 25 September 2015. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
  17. ↑ "/ Companies / Telecoms — Investors welcome Vodafone deal". Ft.com. Archived from the original on 11 July 2007. Retrieved 1 May 2009.
  18. ↑ "Piramal Group to sell Vodafone India stake for Rs. 8900 crore". IANS, news.biharprabha.com. 10 April 2014. Archived from the original on 12 April 2014. Retrieved 10 April 2014.
  19. ↑ "Company History | About Vodafone India". www.vodafone.in. Retrieved 29 April 2017.
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 Lad, Gargi (20 May 2024). "Vodafone Idea arbitration case - iPleaders". iPleaders. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  21. ↑ "The Taxation Laws (Amendment) Act, 2021". Press Information Bureau. 1 October 2021. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  22. ↑ "Scrapping of Retrospective Tax Laws". TCCLR. 6 November 2022. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  23. ↑ "Income tax department withdraws ₹8,500-crore transfer pricing case against Vodafone". Mint. 3 November 2025. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  24. ↑ "Income Tax Department Drops ₹8,500 Crore Transfer Pricing Case". Angel One. 5 November 2025. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  25. ↑ "I-T drops ₹8,500-crore transfer pricing case". CAalley. 4 November 2025. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  26. ↑ Raj, Amrit (21 October 2017). "The shakeup in India's telecom sector". www.livemint.com. Retrieved 21 April 2018.
  27. ↑ "Vodafone Idea re-brands itself 'Vi'". The Indian Express. 7 September 2020. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  28. ↑ "India asks Vodafone Idea to convert nearly $2 bln in govt dues into equity". Reuters. 3 February 2023. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  29. ↑ "Govt Stake In Vodafone Idea Rises To 49%". Angel One. 3 July 2025. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  30. ↑ 30.0 30.1 "Govt Holds 49% In Vodafone Idea, Won't Enter Management". Moneycontrol. 27 February 2026. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  31. ↑ "Vodafone Idea Shareholding Pattern 2026". Choice India. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  32. ↑ "Vodafone Idea: Who Owns How Much Stake in the Company Now". TelecomTalk. 14 April 2025. Retrieved 27 February 2026.
  33. ↑ "YOU Broadband India Limited". www.youbroadband.in. Retrieved 24 September 2017.
  34. ↑ "What you dont now about Mpesa…". The mind of Mbugua Njihia. 15 July 2009. Archived from the original on 1 November 2012. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
  35. ↑ "Mobile phone banking in Africa". YouTube. 9 May 2008. Archived from the original on 11 October 2014. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
  36. ↑ HDFC Launch Archived 16 April 2014 at the Wayback Machine. "HDFC Launch". Retrieved 28 June 2012
  37. ↑ ICICI Bank Archived 16 April 2014 at the Wayback Machine. "ICICI Bank". Retrieved 28 June 2012
  38. ↑ Russell, Jon (17 April 2013). "Vodafone launches M-Pesa mobile banking service in India, targeting 700m 'unbanked' people". The Next Web. Archived from the original on 21 April 2013. Retrieved 20 April 2013.
  39. ↑ "Vodafone to bring M-Pesa service to 20,000 customers in MP". NDTV Gadgets. 27 March 2014. Archived from the original on 24 December 2014. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
  40. ↑ PTI. "Vodafone launches money transfer service 'm-pesa' in Delhi". The Hindu Business Line. Archived from the original on 11 October 2014. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
  41. ↑ "Ignore both Airtel Money and M-Pesa". Moneysaverindia.com. Archived from the original on 28 December 2014. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
  42. ↑ "Vodafone India offers new international roaming pack". 28 June 2012. Archived from the original on 28 June 2012. Retrieved 28 June 2012.
  43. ↑ "India's 3G Auction Ends; Operator And Circle-Wise Results". MediaNama. 19 May 2010. Archived from the original on 25 August 2010. Retrieved 24 December 2014.
  44. ↑ "Vodafone India to Rollout 4G Services Starting from Kochi on Monday". Archived from the original on 18 May 2016. Retrieved 18 October 2016.
  45. ↑ 45.0 45.1 "Vodafone Super VoLTE Network | 4G VoLTE (Voice Over LTE) for HD Voice Calls | Vodafone India". discover.vodafone.in. Retrieved 10 November 2018.
  46. ↑ "LinkedIn Top Companies 2017: Where India wants to work now". 18 May 2017. Retrieved 13 June 2018.
  47. ↑ "2018 Recognized Brands - CIO CHOICE". CIO CHOICE. Retrieved 13 June 2018.
  48. ↑ "A Matter of Trust". Financialexpress.com. 8 February 2011. Archived from the original on 11 January 2013. Retrieved 15 June 2013.
  49. ↑ "India's most trusted brands - Rediff.com Business". Rediff.com. 20 January 2011. Archived from the original on 27 May 2013. Retrieved 15 June 2013.

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