The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of an additional equity stake in Apollo Health and Lifestyle by Apollo Hospitals Enterprise, clearing the way for near-complete ownership of the company by the Apollo Hospitals group.Under the approved proposed combination, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise will acquire an additional 30.58 per cent shareholding in Apollo Health and Lifestyle. Prior to the transaction, the acquirer held a 68.84 per cent stake in the target company. Following completion of the acquisition, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise’s shareholding will rise to 99.42 per cent, giving it virtually full control over the entity.Apollo Hospitals Enterprise is a publicly listed company and the flagship parent of the Apollo Hospitals group, one of India’s largest integrated healthcare providers. The group operates across multiple segments of the healthcare value chain, including hospitals, pharmacies, diagnostics, digital health and other allied healthcare services.Apollo Health and Lifestyle is engaged in providing primary and secondary healthcare services across India. Its operations include a network of clinics offering outpatient care, diagnostic services and telemedical consultation, catering to a wide range of patients with an emphasis on accessible and preventive healthcare.The Competition Commission, after examining the proposed transaction, concluded that the acquisition is not likely to have an appreciable adverse effect on competition in the relevant markets in India. Accordingly, the regulator granted its approval under the provisions of the Competition Act, 2002.With the increase in stake, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise is expected to further strengthen integration within its healthcare ecosystem, potentially enabling greater operational efficiencies, streamlined decision-making and enhanced alignment of strategy across its healthcare delivery platforms.The detailed order of the Commission outlining the assessment and rationale for approval will be issued separately, the CCI said.