Kumar Mangalam Birla on why he returned to Vodafone Idea's board

Aditya Birla Group chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla recently made a comeback to the board of Vodafone Idea as an additional director, nearly two years after he stepped down as the non-executive chairman of the telecom company in August 2021. At a recent awards ceremony, KM Birla said he sees “hope” in the business and currently there are opportunities that can be tapped.

"I think we are seeing hope again in the company," Birla said after receiving the Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year 2023 award. “I thought as a promoter it is only right that I also indicate my willingness to take the business forward which is why the decision to come back on the board (was taken),” he added.

He went on to say that the government, which recently became the largest shareholder in Vodafone Idea by way of converting dues, is “pretty resolute” about having three private players in the strategically important telecom sector and has been giving impetus to the industry.

“We saw opportunities in the company which I felt should be tapped. The government is also of the opinion that three private-sector companies should be in the telecommunication sector. The other two companies are doing well, and it is my responsibility to take the business forward. That's why I decided to return,” Birla said.