The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) had earlier directed telecom companies to introduce new voice and SMS plans to benefit users. However, the companies followed suit by launching these plans without reducing the prices, offering them at the same rates as the data-centric plans. TRAI, upon noticing this, decided to step in and announced an investigation into the pricing strategy. In response to TRAI’s scrutiny, Airtel acted swiftly and revised the prices of two of its prepaid plans, cutting them by up to Rs 110.
Airtel Prepaid Plan Price Cut: Details of New Pricing
The two plans, previously priced at Rs 499 and Rs 1959, have now been revised to Rs 469 and Rs 1849, respectively. These price adjustments offer users more affordable options while retaining the same benefits.
Airtel Rs 469 Plan
The newly priced Rs 469 prepaid plan offers users unlimited voice calling, 900 SMS, and a validity of 84 days. The price cut of Rs 30 makes this plan more attractive for those looking for a balance of calling and messaging benefits at an affordable rate.
Airtel Rs 1849 Plan
The Rs 1849 plan now provides a validity of 365 days, along with unlimited voice calling and 3600 SMS. Additionally, subscribers will enjoy extra perks, including free Apollo 24/7 circle membership and a three-month free hellotune subscription. The plan has been reduced by Rs 110, making it a more cost-effective choice for long-term users.
Why Did Airtel Lower Prices?
While Airtel hasn’t officially clarified the reason for the price cuts, it is widely believed that TRAI’s scrutiny played a significant role in prompting this change. TRAI had expressed concerns over the new plans introduced by Airtel and Jio, and the regulatory body’s involvement appears to have encouraged Airtel to make adjustments. There is also speculation that Reliance Jio may follow suit by revisiting their pricing strategy and reintroducing plans with more favorable rates for users. However, there is no official statement from Jio at this point.
This price reduction by Airtel is a welcome move for consumers, ensuring better value for money in the prepaid voice and SMS plans category.