Telecom operators Reliance Jio, Vodafone-Idea (Vi), and Airtel have introduced new prepaid plans focused solely on voice calls and SMS, following the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India’s (TRAI) directive. These plans aim to provide affordable options for users who do not require data services, addressing a long-standing demand from consumers who previously had to purchase bundled packs with unnecessary data benefits. The move is expected to benefit millions of users, particularly those in rural areas or those maintaining secondary SIM cards for basic communication needs.
Reliance Jio SMS-only plans
Reliance Jio has launched two SMS-only prepaid plans. The first is a Rs 1,748 plan offering 336 days of validity, unlimited voice calls, and 3,600 SMS, with an effective daily cost of Rs 5.20. The second plan, priced at Rs 448, provides 84 days of validity, unlimited calls, 1,000 SMS, and access to JioCinema and JioTV services. This plan costs Rs 5 per day, making it one of the most affordable options in the segment.
Vodafone-Idea SMS-only plans
Vodafone-Idea (Vi) has introduced a Rs 1,460 plan with 270 days of validity, unlimited voice calls, and 100 SMS per day. Additional SMS beyond the daily limit is charged at Rs 1 for local and Rs 1.5 for STD messages. The effective daily cost of this plan is Rs 5.41. This offering caters to users seeking extended validity and basic communication services without data inclusions.
Airtel SMS-only plans
Airtel has rolled out two SMS-only prepaid plans. The first is a Rs 1,849 annual pack providing 365 days of validity, unlimited voice calls, and 3,600 SMS, with an effective daily cost of Rs 5.06. The second plan, priced at Rs 469, offers 84 days of validity, unlimited calls, and 900 SMS, costing Rs 5.58 per day. These plans are designed to meet the needs of users who prioritize voice and SMS services over data.
The introduction of these SMS-only prepaid plans by Reliance Jio, Vodafone-Idea, and Airtel aligns with TRAI’s guidelines to make mobile services more consumer-friendly. The new plans provide cost-effective options for users who rely on basic communication services, ensuring they only pay for what they use. This regulatory effort is expected to benefit a significant portion of India’s mobile user base, particularly in rural areas.
Voice and SMS-only plan summary
| Operator | Plan Price (Rs) | Validity | Benefits | Effective Daily Cost (Rs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reliance Jio | 1,748 | 336 days | Unlimited calls + 3,600 SMS | 5.20 |
| 448 | 84 days | Unlimited calls + 1,000 SMS + JioCinema & JioTV access | 5.00 | |
| Vodafone-Idea (Vi) | 1,460 | 270 days | Unlimited calls + 100 SMS/day (additional SMS: ₹1 local, ₹1.5 STD) | 5.41 |
| Airtel | 1,849 | 365 days | Unlimited calls + 3,600 SMS | 5.06 |
| 469 | 84 days | Unlimited calls + 900 SMS | 5.58 |
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