India’s telecom regulator has asked operators to introduce voice and SMS-only tariff plans with multiple validity periods. The aim is to offer a varied choice to mobile users.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has invited feedback from stakeholders, with submissions open till April 28. The move comes amid concerns over bundled data plans and limited low-cost options from service users.
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TRAI Pushes for Affordable & Basic Telecom Plans
TRAI’s consultation paper highlights a framework for telecom operators. It directs them to introduce voice and SMS plans without mandatory data bundling.
“Such plans should be available across different validity periods, including short-term, monthly and longer-term.”
-TRAI
The move, if accepted, will benefit users who rely only on calling and messaging services. This is a particular situation in rural areas and among senior citizens. It also addresses concerns that current prepaid offerings largely bundle data services, leaving limited flexibility for low-usage consumers. After the feedback on pricing, validity structures and implementation timelines, further decisions will be made.
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Industry Impact and Consumer Choice in Focus
The move could prompt telecom operators to revisit their tariff strategies. Currently, data-led plans continue to dominate the market.
Market analysts suggest that introducing voice-only plans could create a segmented pricing model that serves both data-heavy & basic users.
Telecom companies may also need to balance revenue considerations, as bundled plans have been a key driver of average revenue per user (ARPU). At the same time, the proposal aligns with broader regulatory efforts to improve affordability and inclusivity in telecom services.
TRAI has sought inputs from telecom operators, consumer groups and other stakeholders before finalising the recommendations.
