Affordable Recharge Plans Without Data from 23 January

TRAI Brings Big Relief for Mobile Users: Affordable Recharge Plans Without Data

Good news for mobile users! The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has announced new rules that will bring significant changes to mobile recharge options, especially benefiting those who use basic keypad phones or secondary SIM cards. Starting from January 23, 2025, telecom companies like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea will be required to release special plans exclusively for SMS and calling, without bundling data.

Key Announcements:

1. Standalone SMS and Calling Plans:

Telecom operators must offer plans focused only on SMS and voice calls. These schemes will not include data, making them more affordable for users who don’t need internet services.

2. Cheaper Recharge Options:

Operators will now have to provide a ₹10 recharge option for customers. Previously, top-up vouchers were available only in multiples of ₹10, and a restriction on ₹210 top-ups has been removed to allow more flexibility in pricing.

3. Longer Validity:

TRAI has extended the validity of Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) for calls and SMS from 90 days to 365 days, enabling users to choose plans that last up to a year, reducing the need for frequent recharges.

Relief for Keypad Phone and Dual SIM Users:

This initiative will benefit 15 crore keypad mobile users and those with two SIM cards. Typically, dual SIM users rely on one SIM for internet and the other for calls and SMS. Under the new rules, they can save money by opting for cheaper, data-free plans for their secondary SIMs.

Addressing Consumer Concerns:

For years, private telecom companies have bundled SMS, calls, and data in expensive plans, even forcing customers who didn’t use internet services to pay for them. This led to financial losses for millions of users who only needed basic services. TRAI’s move aims to put an end to this practice and provide better choices for consumers.

Impact on Telecom Companies:

While this decision will benefit consumers, it could challenge telecom operators who have been focusing on bundled plans to boost revenue. Companies like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel are transitioning their networks to 4G and 5G, targeting higher Average Revenue Per User (ARPU). However, Airtel and Vodafone Idea, which still support 2G networks, might see a significant impact on their strategy.

Implementation Timeline:

The new rules will take effect on January 23, 2025, giving operators time to introduce the required plans.

This change marks a major step towards affordable mobile services, offering financial relief to millions of users who

 only rely on SMS and voice calls.