India’s telecom regulator has released a draft amendment aimed at improving choice and affordability for mobile users who rely mainly on voice calls and SMS. On 7 April 2026, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) published proposed changes to the Telecom Consumer Protection Regulations that would require service providers to offer voice and SMS‑only tariff vouchers with validity periods comparable to existing bundled plans. The proposal seeks feedback from stakeholders before the rules are finalised.
According to the official announcement of the draft regulation, the measure follows earlier regulatory changes introduced under the Telecom Consumer Protection (Twelfth Amendment) Regulations, 2024. Those rules required each telecom service provider to make available at least one special tariff voucher (STV) designed exclusively for voice and SMS services.
Addressing Limited Availability of Voice and SMS Plans
After the 2024 amendment was implemented, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India observed that only a limited number of such voice and SMS‑only vouchers were being offered by service providers. Several representations from consumers and stakeholders subsequently highlighted the need for short‑duration options that focus solely on these services.
Many current prepaid plans combine voice, SMS and mobile data into a single package. While these bundles are widely used, they may not meet the needs of users who primarily require basic calling and messaging functions, including some elderly users and those with limited data needs.
Proposed Requirement for Equivalent Validity Options
The draft Telecom Consumer Protection (Thirteenth Amendment) Regulations, 2026 would require telecom providers to offer voice and SMS‑only STVs with validity periods matching each distinct validity duration currently available under bundled vouchers that include voice, SMS and data.
Under the proposal, the price of these voice and SMS‑only vouchers would be set proportionately lower than bundled plans that include mobile data. The intention is to ensure that users who do not require data services can access more affordable alternatives while maintaining comparable validity options.
The draft amendment forms part of broader efforts to shape India’s evolving telecommunications landscape as connectivity expands through initiatives involving 4G, 5G and satellite‑enabled networks. At the same time, regulators continue to refine consumer protection frameworks to ensure services remain accessible to a wide range of users.
Stakeholder Consultation Process
TRAI has invited stakeholders, including telecom operators, consumer groups and industry bodies, to submit written comments on the draft regulation by 28 April 2026. Feedback will help inform the regulator’s final decision on whether and how the proposed requirements should be implemented.
The consultation comes as India continues to strengthen its telecommunications ecosystem and deepen international collaboration on digital infrastructure, including initiatives highlighted in the India–Sweden telecom and digital partnership. Such initiatives underline the importance of balancing technological advancement with consumer protection and equitable access.
