The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced a significant update that allows users to retain their mobile SIM cards for just Rs 20 per month. TRAI’s new rule primarily benefits customers who want to keep their numbers active without using them regularly. Here’s a breakdown of what this new rule means and its pros and cons.
What Is the New Rule About?
Under the new guidelines, mobile users can extend the validity of their SIM cards by paying Rs 20 per month. This ensures the SIM remains active, even if users are not making calls, sending messages, or using data regularly. The move is aimed at reducing the disconnection of inactive SIMs while offering an affordable way to maintain mobile connectivity.
Who Benefits from This Rule?
- Occasional Users: Individuals who only use their SIM occasionally or keep it as a secondary number.
- NRIs and Travelers: People traveling abroad who want to retain their Indian numbers without incurring heavy recharge costs.
- Senior Citizens: Those who use their phones sparingly and require minimal expenses.
Pros of the New TRAI Rule
- Cost-Effective Solution: Users no longer need to recharge with expensive plans just to maintain validity. A small Rs 20 fee keeps the SIM active.
- Convenience: It’s particularly useful for travelers or NRIs who need their Indian number to remain operational for banking OTPs or emergency use.
- Prevents Disconnection: The rule minimizes the hassle of losing your number due to inactivity.
Cons of the New TRAI Rule
- Limited Benefits: The Rs 20 fee only extends validity but does not offer any additional data, calls, or SMS benefits.
- Increased Monitoring: Telecom companies might face challenges in tracking and managing low-usage accounts.
- Encourages Dormant SIMs: It could lead to the hoarding of numbers, potentially creating issues with managing mobile number allocations.
Impact on Users and Telecom Operators
This rule simplifies things for users who want to maintain their numbers without high recharges. However, for telecom operators, it could mean additional operational challenges in maintaining inactive accounts. On the brighter side, it reduces customer churn and ensures users stay connected.
Final Thoughts
TRAI’s new Rs 20 SIM retention rule is a thoughtful move that balances affordability and convenience. While it may not provide usage benefits, its low cost ensures users can retain their numbers hassle-free. However, customers should weigh the pros and cons before opting for this plan, as it’s best suited for minimal usage scenarios.
Would this rule make your life easier? Share your thoughts! more..
Comments are closed.