MUMBAI: It is indicated that telecom companies in the country are targeting rate hikes. As a first step, Airtel has increased its prepaid plan rates by 57 percent. The rate was increased in two circles. Airtel has implemented the rate hike in Haryana and Odisha in the first phase. It will be implemented in other circles soon.

Rs 99 plan will now cost Rs 155. Airtel had implemented a similar rate hike in some circles in 2021 as well. At that time, the recharge plan of Rs 79 was increased to Rs 99. As per new reports, Airtel is considering to stop plans with validity of 28 days and plans below Rs 155.

But following Airtel's footsteps, other private telecom companies may soon announce rate hikes. Private telecom companies in the country had to spend Rs 1.5 lakh crore for the 5G auction. Attempts are being made to collect this from the consumers through rate hikes.