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TRAI issues new Telecom guidelines for separate Voice n SMS plans

by VARINDIA 2024-12-24

In response to the needs of the 150 million subscribers in India who continue to use feature phones with 2G networks, TRAI's new guidelines to the telcos can be termed as a Christmas gift for the subscribers.

In a move aimed at enhancing consumer choice and addressing growing demands for customization, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued new guidelines mandating telecom service providers to offer distinct plans for voice and SMS services. The directive is part of TRAI’s continuous efforts to create a more transparent, flexible, and consumer-centric telecom ecosystem in the country.

Telecom operators are now required to provide individual plans for voice and SMS services, ensuring users can select services based on their specific needs without being bundled into comprehensive packages. The guidelines encourage telecom operators to offer flexibility aiming to cater to users with varying preferences, such as those relying heavily on internet-based communication apps but still requiring minimal voice or SMS services.

Currently, telecom providers offer data along with Voice+SMS packs for users of 2G services or dual SIM cards. However, several users rely on one SIM for data and the other strictly for calls and SMS. This means they often have to pay for an expensive recharge plan that covers only two basic services. To address this issue, TRAI is set to enforce new regulations, ensuring that customers can access affordable and efficient Voice+SMS packs. This move comes as a response to the needs of the 150 million subscribers in India who continue to use feature phones with 2G networks.

TRAI believes that such special recharges will help certain segments of consumers, especially the elderly, in rural areas. TRAI has affected these changes by tweaking the definitions of STV and CV in the Telecom Tariff Order of 1999. "The TRAI is of the view that a separate Special Tariff Voucher (STV) for Voice and SMS in addition to existing Data only STV and bundled offers shall be mandated. It is also observed that mandating Voice and SMS-only STV will and bundled offers shall be mandated," the notification read.

TRAI has instructed operators to provide clarity on promotional offers and ensure that these do not compromise the availability or visibility of standalone voice and SMS plans. Special provisions have been recommended for low-income and rural segments, ensuring affordable voice and SMS options to bridge the connectivity gap in underserved areas.

TRAI has emphasized greater transparency in pricing structures. Telecom providers must clearly disclose the cost, validity, and terms of each voice and SMS plan to avoid confusion or hidden charges. The guidelines instruct operators to provide clarity on promotional offers and ensure that these do not compromise the availability or visibility of standalone voice and SMS plans.

TRAI’s new telecom guidelines mark a significant step towards modernizing the Indian telecom sector by prioritizing consumer needs. The emphasis on standalone voice and SMS plans reflects a broader shift toward personalization and transparency, catering to evolving consumer preferences in a dynamic communication landscape. As the industry adjusts to these changes, consumers are poised to benefit from more tailored and cost-effective services.