Telecom companies are quietly increasing user costs without officially raising prices. Their strategy is simple — they remove low-cost recharge plans, leaving customers with only higher-priced options.
Following this trend, Airtel has discontinued its popular ₹189 prepaid plan, making the ₹199 plan the new minimum recharge option.
This means users now have to pay at least ₹10 more than before.
The ₹189 plan was especially popular among users with limited data and calling needs. It offered 1GB of high-speed data, unlimited local and STD calling,
and 300 SMS with a validity of 21 days — a perfect balance for light mobile users. However, Airtel has now completely removed this plan from its website and app.
New Entry-Level Plan: ₹199 Recharge
Airtel’s new basic plan now starts at ₹199. This plan provides 2GB of data, unlimited calling, and 100 SMS per day, along with a 28-day validity.
For just ₹10 more, users now get double the data and a longer validity period. This plan could be a better deal for users who want more data or longer usage time.
However, users with minimal data usage or those who only need basic calling and texting may find this change disappointing.
Rising Costs in the Telecom Sector
Airtel’s move appears to be a strategic decision aimed at managing rising operational costs and investing in network infrastructure.
Yet, for the average customer, it signals that affordable mobile recharges are slowly disappearing.
Jio’s High-End Plans for Comparison
Meanwhile, Reliance Jio continues to offer premium plans:
₹3,999 Plan – 2.5GB of data per day, unlimited calling, 100 SMS daily, unlimited 5G data, 90-day JioHotstar Mobile/TV subscription, and 50GB of free JioAICloud storage.
₹3,599 Plan – Similar benefits, including 2.5GB daily data, free calling, 100 SMS per day, 5G access, 90-day Hotstar Mobile access, and 50GB cloud storage.
