Reliance Group launches maiden ESOP scheme for 2,500 employees

Reliance Group has announced its first-ever employee stock option plans for staff at Reliance Infrastructure and Reliance Power, covering 2,500 employees across the two companies, the Economic Times reported.

The group described the move as a signal of its commitment to employees as “its greatest assets and trusted partners in the journey of growth, transformation and sustainable value creation”. The ESOP scheme follows shareholder approval granted on 3 November 2024.

Most eligible employees will be able to exercise their stock options at a face value of ₹10 per share, a gesture the company said recognises their loyalty and long-standing contribution to the group’s turnaround efforts. The two listed entities together have more than 50 lakh shareholders, according to the statement.

The introduction of stock options marks a notable shift in the group’s approach to incentivising its workforce. Reliance Group said it employs over 28,000 people and serves millions of customers, with assets totalling ₹1,07,123 crore and a net worth of ₹40,856 crore.

Analysts say ESOPs can strengthen retention during restructuring cycles and better align employee performance with long-term shareholder value. The group has not indicated whether similar schemes will be extended to other subsidiaries, but the move suggests a broader focus on talent-led consolidation as its businesses seek renewed stability.