Following an order from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), leading telecom companies Jio, Airtel, and Vi have introduced new plans for their customers offering only voice calling and SMS services. This move caters to users who don't require data and primarily use calling and messaging services. Let's explore these new plans in detail and compare their affordability.
Jio's Voice and SMS Plans
• Jio, India's largest telecom company, has launched two new voice and SMS plans.
• ₹1,748 plan
• Validity: 336 days
• Features: Unlimited calling and 3,600 SMS
• Daily cost: ₹5.20
• Note: This plan does not include data.
• ₹448 plan
• Validity: 84 days
• Features: Unlimited calling and 1,000 SMS
• Daily cost: ₹5.33
Airtel's Voice and SMS Plans
• Airtel has also introduced two new plans as per TRAI's directive.
• ₹1,849 plan
• Validity: 365 days
• Features: Unlimited calling and 3,600 SMS
• Daily cost: ₹5.06
• Note: This plan offers an affordable option with a yearly validity.
• ₹469 plan
• Validity: 84 days
• Features: Unlimited calling and 900 SMS
• Daily cost: ₹5.58
Vi's Voice and SMS Plans
• Vodafone Idea (Vi) has also introduced two new plans for its customers.
• ₹1,849 plan
• Validity: 365 days
• Features: Unlimited calling and 3,600 SMS
• Daily cost: ₹5
• Note: This plan is comparable to Airtel's annual pack.
• ₹470 plan
• Validity: 84 days
• Features: Unlimited calling and 900 SMS
• Daily cost: ₹5.60
Customer Feedback
Customer feedback indicates that while companies have reduced some features in existing plans, these new options are perceived as better alternatives. These plans are particularly useful for senior citizens and basic phone users.
Which Plan is the Most Affordable?
For annual plans, Airtel and Vi's ₹1,849 packs are almost identical, while Jio's ₹1,748 plan offers slightly less validity at a lower price. For 84-day plans, Jio's ₹448 plan is the cheapest, while Airtel and Vi's plans are comparable in price and features.
Reason Behind TRAI's Directive
TRAI took this step to provide relief to customers who do not require data. This initiative primarily targets senior citizens and those using basic phones instead of smartphones.
Jio, Airtel, and Vi have provided options with their voice and SMS-only plans, but the lack of data may be a concern for some users. Nevertheless, the longer validity of these plans could be a better option for senior citizens.
