Jio, Airtel, BSNL Users Take Note! New Rules on SIM Validity Without Recharge
Mobile phones have become an integral part of our lives, but have you ever wondered how long your SIM card remains active if you don't recharge it? This is a common question for many users, especially those with a second SIM or those who find it difficult to recharge frequently. Recently, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced new rules that will bring some relief to mobile users. According to these new regulations, telecom companies are now required to launch plans that only offer voice and SMS services. This will benefit feature phone users and the elderly in rural areas. Let's explore these new rules in detail, including how long your SIM will stay active without a recharge.
SIM Card Validity and New Rules
According to TRAI's new guidelines, telecom companies must now offer plans that cater exclusively to voice calls and SMS services. This means that you can keep your number active even without data. This is especially beneficial for those who don’t use smartphones or those who only need calling and messaging services.
SIM Card Validity Overview
| Telecom Company | Active Period Without Recharge | Grace Period |
|---|---|---|
| Jio | 90 days | 15 days |
| Airtel | 60 days | 15 days |
| Vi (Vodafone Idea) | 60 days | 15 days |
| BSNL | 180 days | 30 days |
Jio Users' SIM Validity Rules
Jio offers a validity of 90 days for incoming services, meaning that if you don't recharge for 90 days, you can still receive incoming calls and messages. However, you won't be able to make outgoing calls or send messages during this time.
Jio's Minimum Recharge Plans:
- ₹155 plan: 28 days validity, 2GB data, unlimited calling
- ₹179 plan: 24 days validity, 1GB data per day, unlimited calling
Airtel Users' SIM Validity Rules
Airtel provides 60 days of incoming validity. After this period, you must recharge to keep your number active.
Airtel's Minimum Recharge Plans:
- ₹199 plan: 28 days validity, 2GB data, unlimited calling, 100 SMS/day
- ₹179 plan: 28 days validity, 2GB data, unlimited calling
Vi (Vodafone Idea) Users' SIM Validity Rules
Vi, like Airtel, offers 60 days of incoming validity. After this period, you must recharge to keep your number active.
Vi's Minimum Recharge Plans:
- ₹99 plan: 28 days validity, ₹99 talktime, 200MB data
- ₹199 plan: 28 days validity, 2GB data, unlimited calling
BSNL Users' SIM Validity Rules
BSNL offers the longest incoming validity of 180 days, which is much more than the private telecom companies.
BSNL's Minimum Recharge Plans:
- ₹49 plan: 20 days validity, 100 minutes of calling, 100 SMS, 1GB data
- ₹99 plan: 28 days validity, unlimited calling, 200MB data per day
Long Validity Plans
If you want to avoid frequent recharges, you can opt for long validity plans, which typically offer validity from 3 months to 1 year.
Jio's Long Validity Plans:
- ₹2399 plan: 425 days validity, 2GB data per day, unlimited calling
- ₹1999 plan: 365 days validity, 2.5GB data per day, unlimited calling
Airtel's Long Validity Plans:
- ₹2498 plan: 365 days validity, 2GB data per day, unlimited calling
- ₹1799 plan: 365 days validity, 24GB data, unlimited calling
Vi's Long Validity Plans:
- ₹2399 plan: 365 days validity, 1.5GB data per day, unlimited calling
- ₹1799 plan: 365 days validity, 24GB data, unlimited calling
BSNL's Long Validity Plans:
- ₹2399 plan: 425 days validity, 2GB data per day, unlimited calling
- ₹1999 plan: 365 days validity, 3GB data per day, unlimited calling
Tips for Keeping Your SIM Active
- Recharge Regularly: The easiest way to keep your SIM active is by recharging regularly.
- Use Minimum Recharge Plans: If you don't use your phone much, choose a minimum recharge plan.
- Opt for Long Validity Plans: If you don’t want to recharge frequently, choose a plan with long validity.
- Receive Incoming Calls: Regularly receiving incoming calls will keep your number active.
- Use SMS or Missed Call Services: Many telecom companies offer free SMS or missed call services to check balance.
Impact of TRAI’s New Rules
The biggest benefit of TRAI’s new rules will be for users who don't need data. Telecom companies will now have to offer plans that are exclusively for voice and SMS services. This will help feature phone users and elderly people in rural areas.
Key Highlights of TRAI's New Rules:
- Voice and SMS-only Plans: Telecom companies must now offer plans that only provide voice and SMS services.
- Increased Validity for Special Tariff Vouchers: The validity for special tariff and combo vouchers has been increased from 90 days to 365 days.
- Short Duration Packs: Telecom companies must now offer packs with shorter durations.
- Top-up Vouchers: Companies must offer at least one ₹10 top-up voucher.
- End of Color Coding System: The color coding system previously used for recharge vouchers has been discontinued.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. While we’ve made efforts to provide accurate and updated information, telecom companies' rules and plans may change over time. Please contact your telecom provider or visit their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. We are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article.
