The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has directed telecom companies to introduce recharge plans exclusively for voice calls and SMS, without requiring customers to purchase mobile data. This decision, announced in the Telecom Consumer Protection (12th Amendment) Regulation 2024, aims to offer more flexibility to consumers who do not need internet services. The regulation also extends the validity of special recharge vouchers from the current 90 days to a maximum of 365 days, providing users with better long-term options.
With nearly 150 million Indians still using 2G networks, including elderly individuals, rural residents, and dual-SIM users, TRAI identified a strong demand for non-data-specific recharge plans. Many consumers, such as those relying on home broadband or those less familiar with smartphones, prefer plans focused on calls and messages rather than internet access. By mandating at least one Special Tariff Voucher (STV) for voice and SMS, TRAI ensures these users are not forced into purchasing data they do not need.
The new regulations also provide telecom operators greater flexibility in designing recharge plans. Companies can now introduce vouchers at any price point, though a minimum recharge of ₹10 remains mandatory. Previously, recharge values were restricted to ₹10 and its multiples, limiting options for consumers. This change allows for more customized and affordable recharge plans to cater to diverse user needs.
While this move prioritizes consumer choice, it challenges the business strategies of leading telecom providers like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, which have been actively pushing users towards 4G and 5G networks. These companies aim to increase their Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) by offering bundled plans with unlimited data and voice services. Jio has consistently advocated for the phase-out of 2G, viewing it as a hurdle to India’s digital expansion. Similarly, Airtel and Vodafone Idea have been working towards migrating 2G users to 4G by expanding network coverage.
Despite potential resistance from telecom giants, TRAI maintains that voice-and-SMS-only plans will not hinder the government’s digital inclusion goals. Service providers remain free to offer bundled packages and data-only plans alongside these new STVs. By ensuring users have access to plans tailored to their specific needs, this regulation seeks to balance consumer affordability with industry growth.