Reliance Jio discontinues popular Rs 249 prepaid plan; Telecom giants cancel entry-level data plans

KOCHI: Telecom companies in the country are once again increasing tariffs, creating additional burdens for mobile phone customers. Considering the steep increase in operating costs, leading telecom service providers Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have muted their entry-level plans. Vodafone Idea is also likely to increase its charges the next day. The increase is in the rates of data usage.

Instead of directly increasing rates, companies are trying to increase data charges by eliminating low-end plans. Analysts say that withdrawing entry-level plans will increase the average revenue per user (ARPU) of telecom companies by four to eight per cent.

Reliance Jio had discontinued its entry-level Rs 249 prepaid plan, which was highly popular among customers. Soon after, Bharti Airtel also withdrew its Rs 249 prepaid plan. This plan, which was valid for 24 days, offered 1 GB data, unlimited local and STD calls, and 100 SMS per day. However, with the withdrawal of this plan, Airtel's entry-level pack is now priced at Rs 299. This plan, which is valid for 28 days, offers 1 GB data, 100 SMS per day, and unlimited local and STD calls. Reliance Jio discontinued its entry-level Rs 209 and Rs 249 plans. With this, the mobile phone bill of entry-level customers will increase by Rs 50 per month.