TRAI rules: Jio, BSNL, Airtel, Vi users can get 90 days of validity for just Rs 20
TRAI rules have simplified the process for keeping these secondary SIMs active by allowing users can to pay Rs 20 and keep their SIM active.
TRAI has ordered the telecom providers of India to provide affordable recharge plan for calling and messages for those who use dual SIMs and simply want to keep their secondary SIM activated. Typically, dual SIM users use one SIM is used for regular calling and data, while the other serves as a backup for emergencies. However, the recent tariff hikes left users in a lurch as users buy recharge plans at high rate just to keep it active to prevent disconnection. However, the current plans does not specifically offer one benefit, they come bundled with other benefits too which goes unused in the lesser used SIM.
After receiving much complains from users, TRAI rules have simplified the process for keeping these secondary SIMs active by allowing users can just pay Rs 20 and keep their SIM active.
According to the TRAI consumer handbook, a SIM card is deemed deactivated if it hasn’t been used for more than 90 days—roughly three months. If a SIM remains inactive meaning it does not receive any incoming or outgoing calls and messages, data sessions, or engagement with value-added services for 90 days then it gets deactivated. But, if you have a prepaid plan and there is Rs 20 balance in your number then that amount will be deducted to extend the SIM’s activation for an additional 30 days. If the balance is insufficient, the SIM will be deactivated, making it impossible to make or receive calls or access the internet.
Once deactivated, the number associated with the SIM will be made available for new users.
Note that even if the SIM goes unused for 90 days, the telecom operators offer a grace period of 15 days to reactivate the SIM. During this time, users can reach out to customer care or visit a company store for assistance in reactivating their SIM promptly.
In other news, an Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) facility was recently introduced by the the government. The facility showcased 4G mobile towers funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), which will allow customers from any network can tap into 4G services through a single DBN-supported tower. With this, users of Jio, BSNL, and Airtel can now make calls using any available network, even if their own SIM has lost signal.
Also Read: Rs 10 recharge to have 1 year validity, TRAI to bring new rule soon!
