New Delhi, India — April 8, 2026
India’s telecom regulator TRAI has proposed new rules requiring mobile operators to offer affordable plans that include only voice calling and SMS services.
The move is aimed at reducing costs for millions of users who do not require mobile data and currently pay for bundled services.
Proposal Targets Cost Relief for Consumers
Under the draft Telecom Consumer Protection (13th Amendment) Regulations, 2026, telecom companies will be required to introduce at least one special tariff plan that offers only voice and SMS services at a lower price than existing bundled data plans.
The proposal seeks to address concerns that consumers are often forced to pay for data services they may not need.
Earlier Plans Found Limited and Costly
According to TRAI, similar provisions existed earlier, allowing telecom operators to offer such vouchers. However, companies reportedly provided limited options, often with longer validity periods and relatively higher prices.
The regulator noted that these offerings failed to deliver meaningful cost benefits to consumers, prompting the need for stricter guidelines.
Industry Feedback Invited Until April 28
TRAI has invited comments and suggestions from telecom companies and other stakeholders on the draft proposal until April 28, 2026.
The feedback process is expected to help refine the framework before final implementation.
Impact on Telecom Market
If implemented, the regulation could reshape pricing strategies in India’s telecom sector by:
- Enhancing affordability for low-usage customers
- Promoting transparency in tariff structures
- Increasing competition among service providers
