In July 2024, the Indian telecom sector saw a significant tariff hike, with major players like Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi) increasing their prepaid and postpaid plan prices. This move aims to boost the Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) and offset the massive investments made in 5G infrastructure.
In this article, we will delve into the revised plans of these telecom giants, compare them with BSNL’s offerings, and help you choose the most suitable plan for your needs.
Revised Plans of Jio, Airtel, and Vi
Jio
Daily Data Plans:
- ₹299 (28 days): 1GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS
- ₹349 (28 days): 1.5GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS, unlimited night data
- ₹379 (30 days): 2GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS, unlimited night data
Long-Term Plans:
- ₹579 (56 days): 1.5GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS, unlimited night data
- ₹649 (56 days): 2GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS, unlimited night data
Airtel
Daily Data Plans:
- ₹299 (28 days): 1GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS
- ₹349 (28 days): 1.5GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS, unlimited night data
- ₹379 (30 days): 2GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS, unlimited night data
Long-Term Plans:
- ₹579 (56 days): 1.5GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS, unlimited night data
- ₹859 (84 days): 1.5GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS, unlimited night data
Vi
Daily Data Plans:
- ₹299 (28 days): 1GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS
- ₹479 (56 days): 1.5GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS
- ₹699 (84 days): 1.5GB/day, unlimited calls, 100 SMS
Long-Term Plans:
- ₹1799 (365 days): 24GB total data, unlimited calls
Comparison with BSNL
BSNL, being a state-owned operator, generally offers more affordable plans compared to its private counterparts. However, it may lack some features like unlimited night data or weekend data rollover offered by Jio, Airtel, and Vi.
BSNL Plans:
- ₹197 (28 days): Unlimited calls to any network
- ₹365 (28 days): 2GB/day, 100 SMS/day
- ₹1999 (365 days): 2GB/day, 100 SMS/day
Choosing the Right Plan
The best plan for you depends on your individual usage patterns and preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Data Requirement: How much data do you consume daily?
- Call Usage: Do you need unlimited calls or a specific talk time?
- Additional Benefits: Do you value features like unlimited night data, weekend data rollover, or OTT subscriptions?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on your recharge?
Price Comparison Table (Updated vs. Previous)
| Operator | Plan Type | Validity | Data | Calls | SMS | Previous Price | Updated Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jio | Daily Data | 28 days | 1GB/day | Unlimited | 100 | ₹199 | ₹299 |
| Jio | Daily Data | 28 days | 1.5GB/day | Unlimited | 100 | ₹249 | ₹349 |
| Jio | Long-Term | 56 days | 1.5GB/day | Unlimited | 100 | ₹419 | ₹579 |
| Airtel | Daily Data | 28 days | 1GB/day | Unlimited | 100 | ₹199 | ₹299 |
| Airtel | Long-Term | 84 days | 1.5GB/day | Unlimited | 100 | ₹699 | ₹859 |
| Vi | Daily Data | 28 days | 1GB/day | Unlimited | 100 | ₹179 | ₹299 |
| Vi | Long-Term | 365 days | 24GB total | Unlimited | – | ₹1499 | ₹1799 |
| BSNL | Unlimited Calls | 28 days | – | Unlimited | – | ₹106 | ₹197 |
| BSNL | Daily Data | 28 days | 2GB/day | – | 100/day | ₹298 | ₹365 |
The recent tariff hike has undoubtedly made mobile plans more expensive, but it also brings the promise of better network quality and faster 5G speeds in the future. By carefully evaluating your needs and comparing the various plans, including the price changes in the table above, you can find a suitable option that fits your budget and usage patterns.
