• Source:JND
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The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has questioned Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel on stopping the entry-level 1GB per day prepaid plan and Response time,And also Is this even affordable for thousands of users? The two companies jointly control almost 75% of India’s telecommunications market, so rate changes have a big impact on consumers.

Why the Plans Were Discontinued

In August, both operators phased out their cheapest daily data plans:

 

Jio: ₹249 for 28 days validity (1GB/day)

Airtel: ₹249 for 24 days validity (1GB/day)

 

About 20-25% of Jio and Airtel users were using these entry-level packs, according to a JM Financial report. Through their removal, both companies are believed to have increased their ARPU by ₹11–13 (Jio), and ₹10–11 (Airtel).

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The telcos insisted the decision was grounded in market analysis and user demand. While Jio said discontinued plans are still available offline, Airtel pitched it as a move aimed at providing more for its subscribers.

DoT and TRAI’s Role

DoT has also asked the TRAI to revise the rates and send a report. Operators may have freedom on recharge packs, but if consumer interest is affected then TRAI can step in.

This comes amid growing concern regarding increasing telecom tariffs in India, where inexpensive data services have been an essential enabler of digital inclusion for rural and lower-income populations.

What This Means for Consumers

 

Higher Costs: With entry-level plans gone, the cheapest daily data packs now cost significantly more, putting pressure on low-income users.

ARPU Growth: This shift coincides with telcos' long-term initiative of increasing ARPU as an indicator of profitability.

Regulation Analysis: TRAI's assessment could decide whether operators must introduce more cost-cutting plans, or maintain current prices.

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The Bigger Picture

India’s mobile data revolution was driven by ultra-cheap tariffs, turning it into the world’s biggest consumer of mobile internet. But as the market cements around Jio and Airtel, the elimination of cheap plans calls into question consumer choice, digital access and market competition.