The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is reintroducing prepaid recharge plans that offer only voice and SMS services. This move is aimed at providing more options for customers, especially those who only need basic services. TRAI believes this will benefit specific groups like the elderly and rural users who may not require data services.
TRAI has updated its rules under the 1999 Telecom Tariff Order to include these changes. The new Special Tariff Voucher (STV) for voice and SMS will be available alongside existing data-only and bundled plans.
What’s New for 2G and Dual SIM Users?
Currently, most recharge plans combine data with voice and SMS. This forces many 2G and dual SIM users to pay for services they don’t need. For example, some users rely on one SIM for calls and SMS and another for data.
To address this issue, TRAI is mandating affordable voice-and-SMS-only recharge plans. These changes will be a relief for around 150 million Indians who still use feature phones with 2G networks.
How This Will Impact Users
TRAI’s new guidelines will give customers more tailored recharge options, reducing costs for those who don’t need bundled data services. The authority had earlier raised concerns that bundled plans limited consumer choice. The updated rules are expected to create a fairer system for all users.
New SIM Card Rules Effective December 1, 2023
The government has also announced stricter rules for SIM card issuance to prevent fraud and misuse. Here’s what’s changing:
- Vendor Registration: SIM card sellers must register with telecom operators, complete police verification, and submit documents like Aadhaar or passport.
- Mandatory Agreements: Telecom operators and vendors must sign agreements detailing roles, responsibilities, and consequences for violations.
- Hefty Penalties: Selling SIM cards without proper registration could result in fines of up to ₹10 lakh and a three-year blacklisting.
- e-KYC Required: Aadhaar-based e-KYC will now be mandatory for new SIM cards and replacements.
- No Bulk Sales: Businesses must undergo individual KYC verification for each SIM card purchase.
- SIM Reuse: Disconnected SIM numbers will not be reassigned for 90 days.
- SIM Limits: Individuals can own a maximum of 9 SIM cards, while in Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast, the limit is 6.
- Inactive SIMs: SIM cards inactive for 30 days may have outgoing services suspended, and after 45 days, incoming services may be blocked.
These measures aim to improve security, curb fraud, and ensure a transparent telecom system.