Telecom

Global telecommunications giant BT Group has strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Lakshmi Mittal and N. Vittal to its board of directors. The move reflects BT’s ambition to diversify expertise, enhance corporate governance, and navigate the rapidly evolving telecom and digital infrastructure landscape. With Mittal’s industrial and global business acumen and Vittal’s public sector and regulatory experience, BT aims to bolster strategic decision-making, drive innovation, and strengthen stakeholder confidence.

Reliance Communications (RCom), once a flagship of the Anil Ambani-led Reliance Group, is facing fresh turbulence after the State Bank of India (SBI) declared its loan account fraudulent, citing irregularities amounting to Rs. 2,929 crore. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has subsequently initiated a money-laundering investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), following an FIR by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a case against industrialist Anil Ambani and Reliance Communications (RCom) over alleged financial irregularities involving the State Bank of India (SBI). The probe centers on claims of loan defaults and fraudulent financial transactions, highlighting ongoing scrutiny of corporate governance within India’s telecom sector. Analysts note that the investigation could have significant implications for the company’s financial standing and investor confidence.

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has formally rejected claims by the Congress party alleging censorship of SMS communications. In an official statement, the regulator emphasized that its policies strictly uphold digital communication freedoms and operate within the framework of existing laws. TRAI highlighted that allegations of deliberate message blocking lack substantive evidence and contradict its transparency and accountability protocols.

Reliance Jio has marked its latest anniversary by launching a special promotion offering free unlimited data to its subscribers, reinforcing its market leadership in India’s telecom sector. This initiative reflects the company’s strategy to enhance customer loyalty, expand digital penetration, and solidify its position in an increasingly competitive market. Analysts view the move as both a marketing masterstroke and a nod to Jio’s commitment to digital inclusivity, providing millions of users access to uninterrupted connectivity.

Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Ltd. (MTNL), the state-owned telecommunications company, has been fined by both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) for failing to adhere to Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) compliance norms. The penalties underscore regulators’ increasing scrutiny of listed companies and their disclosure obligations, particularly those involving financial reporting and corporate governance.

Reliance Jio has introduced its latest innovation, JioFrames, a pair of smartglasses that combine artificial intelligence with social media integration, marking a significant step in India’s wearable technology market. The device, unveiled at the company’s annual general meeting, features voice-enabled AI assistance, seamless access to Jio applications, and the ability to create and view Instagram Reels directly from the glasses.

Reliance Jio Platforms, India’s largest telecom and digital services provider, has announced plans to launch its much-anticipated initial public offering (IPO) in the first half of 2026. The move, described by industry experts as a watershed moment for India’s capital markets, is expected to unlock significant shareholder value and attract global investors. Alongside the IPO, Jio is pursuing an aggressive overseas expansion strategy, aiming to export its digital platforms and technological expertise to international markets.

Bharti Airtel has announced special relief measures for its customers in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh in the wake of recent heavy rains and flooding. The telecom operator is offering extended payment deadlines, bill waivers, and enhanced network support to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during the emergency. This initiative underscores Airtel’s commitment to customer care and disaster response, particularly in regions prone to extreme weather.

Telecom operators in Jammu and Kashmir have activated intra-circle roaming (ICR), a move expected to significantly improve mobile connectivity across the region. This decision allows subscribers to seamlessly access services from multiple networks within the same circle, particularly enhancing communication in remote and difficult-to-reach areas. Industry experts believe the initiative will not only strengthen telecom infrastructure but also provide a critical boost for digital inclusion, tourism, and local businesses in the union territory.