Recently, many users on social media claimed that inactive SIM cards from companies like Reliance Jio were getting deactivated. This created panic, and people started searching for cheap recharge plans to keep their numbers active.
But here’s something most people don’t know — you can actually keep your SIM active with just ₹20. This rule applies to all telecom operators, including Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea (Vi), and BSNL.
Why SIM Cards Get Deactivated
As per rules set by Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), any SIM card that remains inactive for more than 90 days can be deactivated.
If a number is not used or recharged for a long time, telecom companies may deactivate it anytime between 90 to 365 days. Once this happens and the number is given to someone else, you cannot get it back.
To avoid this, you should either:
Recharge your SIM at least once every 90 days, or
Keep a small balance in your account
How ₹20 Keeps Your Number Active
Here’s the simple trick.
If your SIM has not been used for 90 days but still has a balance of at least ₹20, then ₹20 will be deducted automatically. After that, your number will remain active for the next 30 days.
This process continues as long as you maintain a minimum ₹20 balance.
So, if you have a secondary SIM or a number you rarely use, just keeping ₹20 in it can save it from deactivation.
What If Your SIM Gets Deactivated?
If you forget to recharge or don’t keep ₹20 balance, your SIM may get deactivated.
But there’s still a small window to recover it.
According to TRAI rules, you can reclaim your number within 15 days of deactivation. For this, you may need to visit your telecom provider’s store and recharge your number.
After 15 days, the number may be permanently assigned to someone else.
Important Things to Remember
These rules apply to all telecom operators in India
Keeping a ₹20 balance can extend your SIM validity by 30 days
If the balance is used up, you need to add ₹20 again to stay active
Always take action within 15 days if your SIM gets deactivated
