A failed attempt to submit a college assignment online became an unexpected starting point for the idea behind Reliance Jio. Isha Ambani recalled how an internet connectivity problem in Mumbai around 2009–10 prompted a conversation with her brother, Akash Ambani, about the digital divide between India and the United States.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Jio Platforms’ proposed initial public offering (IPO), Isha said she and Akash were studying in the United States and had returned to Mumbai for a break when she tried to submit an assignment online. The internet did not work, leaving her unable to complete the submission.
The experience led the siblings to question why India did not have the same level of connectivity they had experienced in the US. According to Isha, Akash believed that building a digital technology platform company could help address the gap. That conversation helped shape the thinking behind Jio, which launched commercially in September 2016.
From a Connectivity Gap to Jio
Jio entered the Indian telecom market with introductory free voice and data services, helping expand access to mobile internet. Nearly a decade later, the business has become a major part of Reliance Industries’ digital and telecom operations.
Isha described Jio’s origins as an example of Reliance’s approach to building businesses around long-term thinking, scale and execution. She said the group focuses on opportunities that can create lasting change rather than concentrating only on immediate gains.
Jio Prepares for Its IPO
The recollection comes as Jio Platforms prepares for its proposed IPO, which is expected to become India’s largest public offering. The company has set a price band of ₹1,065–₹1,119 per share for an issue comprising up to 27 crore fresh equity shares. The offering is scheduled to open for subscription on October 21 and close on October 23, 2026.
The IPO is expected to raise up to ₹30,213 crore. The public offering will give investors an opportunity to participate directly in Jio Platforms’ telecom and digital businesses as the company enters the public markets.
The story behind Jio’s creation highlights how a personal experience with unreliable internet helped trigger a broader discussion about India’s digital infrastructure—an issue that later became central to the company’s business vision.
