In recent years, recharge packs have typically included unlimited voice calling, 100 SMS per day, and a limited data allowance for internet access. This trend has prompted telecom operators such as Jio, Airtel, and Vi to introduce plans that prioritize data over voice calls and SMS. Consequently, elderly individuals or those without smartphones are compelled to pay more, as there are no options for voice-only packs. As a result, they must choose plans that provide at least 1GB of data daily, even for basic calling. A proposal to address this concern has gained traction on social media, advocating for the reintroduction of voice-only and SMS packs by telecom providers.
Now finally, TRAI has asked Jio, Airtel, Vi, and BSNL to bring SMS & Voice Only packs for those who don’t need internet data.
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TRAI has proposed the introduction of Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) that provide benefits exclusively for SMS and voice services. This change would allow consumers to avoid paying for unwanted data included in their plans. However, it is important to note that STVs function as either paper or electronic vouchers, which, upon activation, modify certain aspects of the consumer’s tariff plan for a specified duration, affecting the limits on voice calls, SMS, or data usage, but do not provide any monetary value. Consequently, consumers may still require an active base plan.
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has added this new amendment to the Telecom Consumers Protection Regulations, 2012 stating- “Provided also that the service provider shall offer at least one Special Tariff voucher exclusively for Voice and SMS with validity period not exceeding three hundred and sixty-five days.” This means the cap of 90 days validity will not change to 365 days.
TRAI has mandated that telecom operators must provide at least one top-up voucher priced at Rs. 10, which is already being offered. However, subsequent plans are not required to be in increments of 10. Telecom companies have the flexibility to select their preferred denominations. Instead of sticking to Rs. 10, Rs. 20, or Rs. 30, they may choose options like Rs. 10, Rs. 29, Rs. 31, Rs. 49, among others.
The TRAI order has been issued in response to consumer feedback regarding the increasing costs of mobile plans. Many users have expressed a need for plans that offer only voice and SMS services with extended validity. This initiative will benefit over 150 million 2G users who continue to rely on feature or keypad phones and do not require data packages, as they primarily use WiFi at home.
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Telecom giants would face a reduction in revenue as they have been focused on enhancing average revenue per user by offering bundled plans that include not only data but also over-the-top (OTT) services.
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It remains uncertain how these new plans will be implemented, as there is considerable confusion regarding the approach telecom companies will take in response to this change. Clarity is expected to emerge once these companies comply with the amendment and unveil their new plans, which are anticipated to occur in 2025.
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