Airtel doles out bonus but defers hikes as it awaits AGR verdict

Mumbai: Bharti Airtel has rolled out performance bonus for employees but held back the hikes and will take a call when the business turns around sustainably and there is more clarity on the impact of statutory dues on the company's financials, a person familiar with the matter said.

Competitor Vodafone Idea is also unlikely to roll out hikes or bonus this year, having highlighted its financial stress in the Supreme Court recently, said another person. Reliance Jio is expected to give bonus in August, and may give increment to top performers later in the year.

“The (Airtel) bonuses were announced on Thursday but employees were told unofficially that a call will be taken on increments by last quarter of the (calendar) year,” the person said.