TRAI to make cheaper calling-and-SMS-only recharge plans mandatory

Mobile users who do not need internet data in their recharge plans and only need calling or SMS have big news. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, or TRAI, has taken an important decision for such customers.

TRAI has amended rules related to consumer protection. Under the new rules, telecom companies will now have to offer recharge options for their users that do not necessarily include data. This means companies will now have to offer plans with different validities that include only calling and SMS.

Until now, most users had to buy a pack with data along with calling even if they did not need data. After the new rules come into effect, companies will have to offer voice and SMS based plans separately as well. This will benefit most those customers who use smartphones mainly for calling and SMS.

TRAI made this amendment to the consumer protection regulations on September 21. It will take some time for these new rules to come into effect. Companies will have to make changes according to the new system within about 30 days of the notification being issued in the official gazette.

The prices of the new voice-SMS plans have not been fixed yet. As an example, if a company's existing recharge plan with data costs 350 rupees, then after removing data, a calling and SMS only option could cost around 150 to 200 rupees. This means customers could save directly between 150 and 200 rupees. However, the price and validity of plans will depend on individual companies. According to a report, last year about 71 percent of people saw their mobile recharge spending increase by 50 to 200 percent.

Additionally, under the new changes, companies will also have to give clear options regarding recharge validity. Along with 28-day plans, companies will also have to offer options with 30-day validity. This will give customers the flexibility to choose plans according to their needs and budget.