TRAI orders telecom operators to introduce calls and SMS-only plans, benefiting 2G and low-data users.
The new rules extend the validity of voice and SMS vouchers to 365 days, offering more value for money.
Telecom operators are also required to provide top-up vouchers starting from Rs 10 for greater flexibility.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has directed telecom operators to offer SMS-only and call-only plans to individuals as part of the Telecom Consumers Protection (Twelfth Amendment) Regulations 2024. Furthermore, the regulatory body stated that the validity of the Special Tariff Voucher for voice and SMS, as well as Combo vouchers, will be extended to 365 days in order to provide more benefits to users.
The move aims to assist more than 150 million 2G users, as well as those who have multiple SIM cards but only use one for calls or SMS. Simply put, users will only have to pay for the services they wish to use. Until now, even 2G users had to purchase recharge plans that included data, calls, and SMS. The move, however, could be a setback for Vi and Airtel, which both offer 2G networks. It can also be beneficial for Wi-Fi users who only want recharge plans that include unlimited calling rather than internet access.
READ: Why Jio, Airtel, and Vi want TRAI to regulate WhatsApp, Telegram, and other social media apps
Popular telecom operators, on the other hand, are reportedly experimenting with bundled plans that include calls, data, SMS, and OTT benefits in order to increase their Average Revenue Per User (ARPU). According to the new press release, TRAI chose the new regulations based on consumer survey results and stakeholder feedback. The move aims to provide users with value-for-money tariff plans.
In terms of top-up vouchers, the TRAI has also requested that operators issue top-up vouchers in a variety of denominations beginning with Rs 10.
“The reserving of denomination of 10/- and multiple thereof only for top-up voucher has been done away with while retaining mandate of at least one Top Up voucher of denomination of Rs 10 provided by TTO (50th amendment) Order 2012,” TRAI added.
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Ashish Singh
Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. Previously, he worked as a Senior Sub-Editor with Jagran English from 2022, and has been a journalist since 2020, with experience at Times Internet. Ashish specializes in Technology. In his free time, you can find him exploring new gadgets, gaming, and discovering new places. View Full Profile
