TRAI Introduces New Guidelines for Budget-Friendly Rs 10 Recharges and Year-Long Validity
TRAI Introduces New Guidelines for Budget-Friendly Rs 10 Recharges and Year-Long Validity.
In December 2024, TRAI introduced new rules for telecom users aimed at encouraging telecom companies to create affordable recharge plans specifically for 2G users. This initiative is expected to help 150 million mobile users in the country stay connected for an entire year with just one recharge.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released guidelines designed to benefit these 150 million Indian smartphone users who rely on 2G services. These users typically depend on basic mobile functions like voice calls and SMS, but they often face challenges due to high recharge costs that include unnecessary data. To address these issues, TRAI issued the updated guidelines on December 24; however, telecom companies have yet to implement these affordable plans in accordance with the new regulations.
Recharge plans available at affordable rates starting from Rs 10.
According to the new regulations, Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) will need to launch top-up vouchers starting at a price of Rs 10. Additionally, TRAI has lifted the restriction on using only the Rs 10 denomination, allowing operators to offer top-up vouchers of any amount. The regulator has also chosen to discontinue the color-coded physical recharge system due to the increasing popularity of online recharges.
Extend the validity period of special tariff vouchers to 365 days.
In a significant update, TRAI has extended the validity period of Special Tariff Vouchers (STV) from 90 days to a full year, or 365 days. This adjustment allows users to take advantage of long-term, affordable recharge options. Telecom operators have been directed to develop voice and SMS-only plans specifically designed for 2G feature phone users who do not need internet services. Currently, these users have to pay more for plans that include data, even though they only require basic services like calls and messages.
Anticipated schedule for execution.
Reports indicate that the guidelines set by TRAI have been put into effect, giving telecom companies a few weeks to introduce recharge plans that comply with these regulations. While an official launch date hasn’t been provided, it is anticipated that affordable recharge options will be available by the end of January.
This initiative is expected to offer significant relief to millions of users, allowing them to access basic mobile services at more affordable prices.
The recent amendments by TRAI also aim to improve the availability of essential telecom services for India’s 2G users. As operators prepare to implement these changes, users can expect to see budget-friendly plans that meet their specific needs.
