There is big news from India’s stock market! As of July 2025, Bharti Airtel has become the third largest listed company in India. Airtel’s total market value is now about ₹11.419 lakh crore. It has overtaken Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), which now has a market value of ₹11.416 lakh crore, just behind Airtel.
Telecom Sector is Booming
This significant jump highlights the strength of India’s telecom sector today. More people are watching videos, using UPI payments, attending online classes, and using digital apps than ever before. According to TRAI, India’s total data usage crossed 45 exabytes in June 2025, nearly 30% higher than last year! This steady growth in usage translates to consistent monthly revenue for Airtel. As a result, Airtel’s share price has surged, delighting investors.
TCS Faces Slowdown in IT Spending
Meanwhile, TCS, India’s largest IT company, is facing challenges. Global IT spending growth has slowed as major companies in the US and Europe cut costs. Additionally, emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation are reshaping how companies allocate their IT budgets. TCS’s Q1 2025 earnings showed only 2% year-on-year growth, much lower than previous years. Consequently, its market value has slipped behind Airtel.
Big Competition: Jio & Vodafone Idea
Airtel’s main competitors are Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea. Reliance Jio still leads in subscribers—with more than 470 million—but Airtel is close behind, with 390 million active users. Airtel is now attracting more premium customers by offering better 5G services, excellent customer care, and strong network quality. Vodafone Idea is struggling with large losses and debts, losing market share each quarter.
Investors Love India’s Digital Story
Experts say this shift reflects investors’ appetite for companies driving India’s digital growth. A recent Morgan Stanley report predicts India’s data usage will grow by 22% annually through 2030. As a result, companies like Airtel, Jio, and tech startups are gaining greater investor trust. That’s why foreign investors are increasingly putting money into India’s telecom and digital infrastructure stocks.
Airtel’s Big Plans Ahead
In recent months, Airtel has announced significant investments. The company is adding more 5G towers, expanding into smaller towns, and enhancing internet access in villages. Reports suggest that Airtel may soon launch IoT devices, additional cloud services, and new enterprise solutions. These initiatives are expected to boost revenue and help Airtel maintain its lead. Last week Airtel announced strategic partnership with AI Startup “Perplexity AI” to offer its Rs 17,000 worth of subscription free to all user.
Changing Market Leadership
This milestone proves that India’s stock market is evolving rapidly. Previously, IT giants like TCS, Infosys, and Wipro dominated the top rankings. Now, telecom, banking, and energy companies—such as Reliance Industries, HDFC Bank, and Airtel—are climbing higher. Airtel’s rise is a sign that India’s digital future is bright, with strong willingness from people and investors to fuel its growth.
