In its Draft Telecom Consumer Protection (Thirteenth Amendment) Regulation, 2026, released on April 7, TRAI has suggested that all telecom service providers must introduce Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) offering only voice calls and SMS services for each unique validity period of their existing voice-SMS-data bundled plans. These new vouchers are to be priced proportionally lower by excluding the data component, ensuring users pay only for the services they actually need.
This proposal comes after TRAI observed that despite its previous directive in the 2024 Twelfth Amendment—which required operators to offer at least one voice and SMS-only STV—the market still lacks sufficient options. Many users, particularly those who depend heavily on traditional calling and texting, continue to feel compelled to opt for expensive data-heavy bundles they rarely use.
The regulator has received multiple representations from consumers and stakeholders highlighting the need for shorter-duration, voice-and-SMS-focused recharge packs. Senior citizens, feature phone users in rural areas, and low-data consumers have been vocal about wanting simpler and more affordable plans that align with their actual usage patterns.
Under the proposed rules, for every validity period—be it 28 days, 56 days, or 84 days—offered in bundled plans, operators will now have to provide a matching voice and SMS-only voucher. The tariff must reflect a fair reduction, making these plans genuinely economical for those who do not require mobile internet.
If implemented, the regulation is expected to benefit a wide cross-section of users:
• Elderly citizens who primarily use their phones to stay connected with family through voice calls. • Residents in rural and semi-urban areas where high-speed data is either unavailable or unnecessary. • Users of basic feature phones that do not support heavy data consumption. • Budget-conscious consumers seeking cost-effective options without paying for unused data services.
TRAI believes the move will bring greater transparency, affordability, and flexibility into telecom pricing. It also aims to discourage operators from pushing bundled plans that include data even when customers have no need for it, thereby protecting consumer interests more effectively.
The telecom sector in India has witnessed explosive growth in data consumption in recent years, with major players like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea focusing heavily on bundled offerings. While this has benefited heavy internet users, it has left a significant segment of the population—those who still rely on basic voice and SMS—feeling underserved.
By mandating corresponding voice and SMS-only vouchers across all validity periods, TRAI is attempting to restore balance and ensure that every consumer, regardless of their usage profile, has access to suitable and fairly priced options.
The draft regulation has now been published on TRAI’s official website, opening the door for public and stakeholder consultation. The authority has invited written comments from telecom companies, consumer organisations, and individual users. All feedback must reach TRAI by April 28, 2026, and can be sent electronically to Shri Vijay Kumar, Advisor (Financial & Economic Analysis).
TRAI has made it clear that it will thoroughly review all submissions before finalising the regulation. Industry experts view this consultation as a crucial opportunity to shape consumer-friendly policies that reflect real-world needs in a diverse market like India.
If the proposal is adopted, it could mark a meaningful shift towards more inclusive telecom services, allowing millions of Indians to recharge their phones according to their actual requirements rather than being locked into one-size-fits-all bundled plans.
The coming weeks will be important as TRAI evaluates feedback and decides the final shape of these new consumer protection measures. For now, the draft stands as a clear signal that the regulator remains committed to safeguarding the interests of every telecom user across the country.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
