India’s telecom regulator has launched an investigation into the country’s two largest mobile operators after they quietly removed their most affordable data plans, raising concerns about digital accessibility for millions of low-income users.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) questioned Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel about their decision to discontinue ₹249 prepaid plans that offered 1GB of daily data, according to a report by Mint. The Department of Telecommunications flagged the issue and instructed TRAI to investigate and submit a detailed report.
Both operators withdrew their entry-level plans in August 2025, effectively forcing customers to pay higher prices for mobile data. Jio’s ₹249 plan, which offered 28-day validity, was removed from online platforms but remains available only through physical Jio stores. Airtel completely discontinued its ₹249 plan on August 20, citing internal usage analysis and changing demand patterns.
Regulatory Response Shows No Immediate Intervention
Despite the probe, TRAI sources indicated on September 11 that the regulator sees no urgent need for intervention at this stage. The authority examined responses from both operators for regulatory compliance but found no significant urgency requiring immediate action.
One operator confirmed complete withdrawal of the plan and filed required information with TRAI, while the other clarified the plan remains available through physical stores only. The replies are being reviewed for compliance with existing regulations.
Market Impact on Entry-Level Users
The plan removals have effectively raised the minimum cost of mobile data access in India. Jio’s cheapest option for new subscribers is now ₹299 for 1.5GB per day with 28-day validity, while Airtel’s entry-level plan starts at ₹279 monthly for 1.5GB daily data.
The move particularly impacts low-income users who depend on affordable data plans for basic internet access. According to JM Financial estimates, approximately 20-25% of Jio’s subscribers used the 1GB/day plan, and its withdrawal could lift the company’s average revenue per user by ₹11-13 per month
Industry analysts suggest this restructuring could pave the way for another round of tariff increases of 10-15% later this year. Vodafone Idea is expected to follow suit, with outgoing CEO Akshaya Moondra indicating plans to withdraw similar low-cost offerings across markets.
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