Tag: recharge plans

  • Airtel, Jio, and Vi Ordered to Launch Voice-Only Recharge Plans Under New TRAI Rules

    Airtel, Jio, and Vi Ordered to Launch Voice-Only Recharge Plans Under New TRAI Rules

    TRAI Tightens Recharge Plan Requirements

    The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has directed Airtel, Reliance Jio, and Vodafone Idea to broaden their voice- and SMS-only recharge offerings. The new rules require telecom operators to provide calling- and messaging-only plans across shorter validity periods, giving customers who do not need mobile data more flexible options.

    The amended regulations take effect on October 21, 2026, after being officially notified on September 21. Under the framework, operators must offer voice-and-SMS-only options for validity periods of 30 days or less wherever comparable combined voice, SMS, and data plans exist.

    What Telecom Companies Must Do

    • Offer voice-and-SMS-only Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) for validity periods of up to 30 days.
    • Provide a monthly plan that renews on the same date each month, or on the last day of the month when that date does not exist.
    • Introduce at least one longer-validity voice-and-SMS-only plan that matches existing long-duration data-inclusive offerings.

    Why TRAI Is Expanding Voice-Only Plans

    TRAI had earlier asked operators to offer at least one voice-and-SMS-only STV, but these plans were mostly concentrated around longer validity periods. That left limited choices for consumers who rely on basic phones, use Wi-Fi for data, keep a secondary SIM, or simply prefer not to pay for mobile internet.

    The regulator argues that these users should be able to pay only for the services they actually use. The consultation for the latest amendment drew 1,132 responses from telecom operators, industry bodies, consumer groups, and other stakeholders, followed by an Open House Discussion on June 15, 2026.

    Operator Concerns and Pricing Outlook

    Major telecom providers opposed the expanded mandate during consultations. Reliance Jio argued that existing tariff options were already sufficient and questioned the need for separate plans for every validity period.

    TRAI has not yet announced specific pricing for the new voice- and SMS-only plans. Instead, it has provided guidance for operators to adjust tariffs to reflect the removal of data, leaving room for market-driven pricing.

  • Reliance Jio Offers Free Canva Pro for 12 Months: Eligible Plans and Activation Guide

    Reliance Jio Offers Free Canva Pro for 12 Months: Eligible Plans and Activation Guide

    Reliance Jio has partnered with Canva to provide eligible customers with free access to Canva Pro or Canva Pro Lite for up to 12 months. This exclusive benefit is available with select Jio recharge plans and can be claimed through the MyJio app starting September 16, 2026. The companies have valued the offer at up to Rs. 4,000.

    Which Jio Plans Are Eligible?

    The Canva subscription you receive depends on your Jio recharge plan. Customers on the Rs. 399 plan will get Canva Pro for 12 months. Users on the Rs. 349 plan and eligible 2GB-per-day plans priced above Rs. 349 will receive Canva Pro Lite for the same period.

    The offer does not require any additional subscription charges. However, customers should check the Canva offer section inside the MyJio app to confirm their eligibility before activating the benefit.

    How to Claim Your Free Canva Subscription

    Eligible customers can activate the benefit through the MyJio app. Simply open the app, locate the Canva offer, and follow the on-screen instructions. You may need to verify your Jio number and sign in to an existing Canva account or create a new one.

    Once activation is complete, the eligible Canva subscription will be linked to your account. Be sure to use the correct Canva account during activation to avoid linking the benefit to the wrong profile.

    This collaboration gives users access to premium design and AI tools, making it easier to create professional graphics, presentations, and more without a separate subscription fee.