TRAI has issued the Draft Telecom Consumer Protection (Thirteenth Amendment) Regulation, 2026, requiring all telecom operators to provide affordable mobile plans exclusively for voice calls and SMS across multiple validity periods. This aims to ensure wider consumer choice, especially for users who do not require data services.
Under the draft, operators must offer at least one Special Tariff Voucher (STV) for voice and SMS only, available in daily, weekly, monthly, and long-term options. These standalone packs are expected to be cheaper than bundled data plans, making them more accessible to senior citizens, rural users, and low-income groups.
TRAI noted that despite its 2024 mandate, only limited such plans were introduced. Public feedback highlighted the need for shorter-duration, low-cost voice/SMS packs. The regulator has now invited comments on the draft before finalizing the regulation.
