India, Feb. 5 -- Opening thoughts. The first bullish communication from Vodafone Idea, in many years, regarding a future roadmap of investment. And more to the point, an intent to not just stay around, but compete. The government's help has, well, helped.

The company confirms a Rs.45,000 crore infusion focused on capital expenditure over the next three years. Network upgrades are essential, and imperative. I had pointed out in my Tech Tonic column last year that letting Vi fail would be detrimental to consumers. I'm glad it was heard, in the corridors of power.

The Department of Telecommunications' recent decision to defer Vi's AGR (Adjusted Gross Revenue) dues for four years is the basis for the brighter outlook, one that the telecom c...