From The Economic Times · ET Bureau · · 1m
Trai pushes voice-SMS plans despite operator pushback
India's telecom regulator mandates voice-only plans to help low-income users avoid data costs.
In brief
India's telecom regulator mandates voice-only plans to help low-income users avoid data costs. Operators must offer affordable voice and SMS plans without data bundles for millions who can't use mobile data. Originally reported by The Economic Times.
New TRAI rules require voice-SMS plans
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India mandates telecom operators to offer affordable voice and SMS-only tariff plans without bundled data.
“The decision follows opposition from Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea during the consultation process.”
Operators warn of technical issues
Jio claims standalone voice plans are incompatible with 4G and 5G networks and could lower scam costs.
“Jio argued that standalone voice plans were technically incompatible with modern 4G and 5G networks.”
Vodafone Idea fears bill shocks
Vodafone Idea warns removing data from plans could cause unexpected charges for software updates and OTP verification.
“Vodafone Idea warned that removing data from plans could expose users to unexpected charges.”
Consumer groups highlight cost issues
Consumer groups say millions of users in tribal areas pay for unused data due to poor telecom coverage.
“The Consumer Protection Association says Himmatnagar in Gujarat has 300-350 million feature-phone users.”
Regulation targets data waste
The rules aim to help users who cannot use mobile data avoid paying for unused data services.
“They also said that in many tribal and hilly areas, telecom towers fail to function.”
What to remember
Operators must offer affordable voice and SMS plans without data bundles for millions who can't use mobile data.
