TRAI’s New Proposal: Companies Must Offer Separate Voice-and-SMS Plans; Suggestions Invited Until April 28
On Tuesday, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) put forward a new proposal to telecom companies regarding mobile plans. Under this initiative, the provision of affordable plans focused solely on voice calls and SMS services may soon become mandatory. According to the proposal, telecom operators will be required to offer plans that do not include data benefits. The pricing of these plans is expected to be lower than that of existing data-centric special plans.
Why Did the Telecom Regulator Introduce This New Proposal?
The telecom regulator noted that companies had previously introduced similar plans; however, they were priced at a high premium. Despite the removal of data benefits, the prices were not reduced proportionately. The regulator stated that the outcome of the changes implemented earlier had not been satisfactory, and it is for this very reason that this new, revised proposal has been introduced.
‘Customers Will Not Be Forced to Opt for Unwanted Services’
Companies will now be required to offer plans focused exclusively on voice calls and SMS—alongside their standard plans that include calls, SMS, and data—for every validity period. This move aims to enhance transparency. Consequently, customers will no longer be compelled to subscribe to services they do not desire.
‘Consumers Who Do Not Want Data Will Not Have to Pay for It’
TRAI stated that individuals who do not require data services will not be obligated to pay for them. This initiative will provide customers with a wider range of choices. Plans focused on voice calls and SMS will be made available on par with plans that include data benefits. Suggestions and feedback regarding this proposal have been invited until April 28.
