TRAI's New Rules Promise Relief for SIM Card Users

With the advent of smartphones, many individuals are now using two SIM cards. However, this practice often results in an additional financial burden, as users are compelled to recharge their second SIM with a data-inclusive plan, even when it's not needed. Feature phone users face a similar situation, where they end up paying for data they don’t require.

In a significant move to ease monthly expenses for consumers, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued new directives to telecom companies. TRAI has instructed telecom operators, including Jio, Airtel, Vodafone India, and BSNL, to introduce specialized recharge plans exclusively for voice and SMS services. According to TRAI, these Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) will allow customers to pay only for the services they use. TRAI stated that this initiative would particularly benefit feature phone users and elderly individuals in rural areas.

Currently, most telecom operators offer bundled plans combining voice, SMS, and data services, which cost users approximately ₹200 per month. For feature phone users who don’t need data, recharging with these bundled plans becomes an unnecessary expense. Similarly, smartphone users with dual SIMs often recharge their secondary SIM for data just to keep the number active, leading to additional costs.

TRAI’s new directives promise relief for such users. With affordable, standalone plans expected to hit the market soon, the financial strain on consumers is likely to reduce. Furthermore, TRAI has extended the validity period of Special Tariff Vouchers and combo vouchers from the current 90 days to 365 days. This change will eliminate the hassle of frequent recharges. TRAI has also advised telecom companies to introduce short-duration packs to cater to varying consumer needs.