New Delhi :
Common customers troubled by expensive mobile tariffs may soon get relief.
The telecom regulator TRAI has proposed that telecom companies launch packs without data, focusing only on voice and SMS.
This could reduce the financial burden of recharges on customers.
TRAI’s Basis for the Proposal
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) observed that most market tariffs are bundled offers including data, voice, SMS, and OTT services.
These bundles do not meet the needs of many subscribers, as not everyone uses all these services.
Consequently, subscribers feel they are paying for services they don’t use. Even today, many mobile users do not use smartphones.
Users with basic phones neither need OTT services nor data.
Even some smartphone users only use a few OTT services that come with bundled offers.
With no other options available, they have to choose plans with these bundles.
Benefits for Basic Phone Users
Currently, all three major telecom companies mainly offer bundled plans. Even the cheapest plans include data.
This makes the plans expensive for users who don’t use data, such as basic phone users, who end up paying for unused data.
These users will greatly benefit from TRAI’s proposal.
TRAI reminded telecom companies that a few years ago, different service recharge plans were available.
Companies used to offer vouchers in different colors, like green for top-up and blue for combo plans.
Due to digitalization, these vouchers have become obsolete. TRAI is exploring if companies can reintroduce color-coded plans in the digital era.
Providing Feedback
TRAI has issued a consultation paper with these proposals and is seeking feedback from all concerned parties.
Suggestions can be submitted until August 16, with counter suggestions due by August 23. After this, TRAI will move towards implementing these proposals.
