Mobile recharge plans without data could become cheaper:TRAI introduces draft, seeks suggestions; prices could drop by up to 70%

Mobile recharge plans without data may soon become more affordable. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is working on a proposal to make this possible. The regulator has released a draft of the Telecommunication Consumer Protection Regulations, 2026, aimed at protecting consumers’ interests. The main idea behind the proposal is simple: “If a customer doesn’t need data, why should they pay for it?” TRAI has invited suggestions from telecom companies and the public before finalising the new rules. What is the new proposal? At present, telecom companies offer call-and-SMS-only recharge packs for only a few limited validity periods. Because of this, many customers who only need calling services are forced to buy more expensive plans that also include data. TRAI has now proposed that if telecom companies offer data plans with validity of 7, 28, 56, or 84 days, they must also provide call-and-SMS-only plans for the same validity periods. This would give users more affordable options based on their actual needs. How much will prices decrease? Since 50-70% of the cost in mobile plans is for data, with the implementation of the new rule, the price of call-SMS only plans could be less than half. For example, a plan costing ₹300 could be available for ₹100 to ₹150. Who benefits? Feature phone users and the elderly who do not use data. Those who keep a second SIM only for calls. Also, it will be beneficial for those who have Wi-Fi at home. Apps will not be able to block important calls from the 1600 and 140 series TRAI has clarified that call management apps like Truecaller cannot block calls from the 1600 and 140 series Companies will get time to implement the new rules Telecom companies will decide the final prices of the plans. Once the new rules are introduced, they will be given enough time to implement them. The changes are expected to increase competition among telecom operators, giving users access to more affordable plan options.