Airtel has discontinued two popular low-cost data-only prepaid plans of Rs 121 and Rs 181, thereby limiting options for budget-conscious users. Users will now have to pay more than before. As alternatives, the company's new data packs and Jio's annual recharge plan are available.
Airtel Data Plans Update: Airtel has recently discontinued two popular data-only prepaid plans priced at Rs 121 and Rs 181. This change affects millions of the company's users in India. The old inexpensive plans offered 30-day validity and data benefits only, whereas now users will have to upgrade to the new Rs 100, Rs 161, and Rs 195 data packs or the premium Rs 361 plan. The objective behind this change is the company's strategy to increase tariffs and offer better premium benefits. In this scenario, Jio's annual recharge plan has also emerged as a b alternative.
Old Inexpensive Plans Discontinued
Airtel has discontinued two data-only prepaid plans under Rs 200, specifically the Rs 121 and Rs 181 plans. These plans offered 30-day validity and data benefits only. With the discontinuation of these plans, options for budget-conscious users have diminished, and they will now have to pay more than before. This change reflects the company's strategy to increase tariffs.
New Alternatives and Benefits
Airtel's Rs 100 plan is now available, offering 30-day validity and 6GB data, along with access to over 20 OTT apps including SonyLIV. The Rs 161 data plan provides 12GB data for 30 days, while the Rs 195 plan also offers 12GB data along with a JioHotstar subscription. For those seeking premium data, a Rs 361 plan with 50GB data is also available.
Airtel's Subscriber Growth
According to TRAI's October 2025 report, the total mobile connections in India have reached 118.4 crore. Airtel added 12.52 lakh new users last month, bringing the company's total subscribers to 39.36 crore. With the increase in premium users, Airtel is strengthening its position as the second-largest telecom company in the country.
Jio's Annual Recharge Option
Jio has introduced an annual validity prepaid plan, priced at Rs 1748. This plan keeps the number active for 336 days (approximately 11 months). It also includes unlimited calling and free SMS, relieving users from the worry of frequent recharges.
