New TRAI consultation paper examines product-specific telecom tariffs

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued a consultation paper to assess the feasibility of introducing separate recharge plans for voice, data and SMS. The move is aimed at addressing the issues with the current bundled plans, which often lead to consumers paying for services they do not use.

The consultation paper, titled ‘Consultation Paper on the Review of the Telecom Consumer Protection Regulations (TCPR), 2012’ examines whether the maximum validity period of Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) and Combination Vouchers (CVs), currently limited to 90 days, should be extended. TRAI has found that while bundles offering data, voice and SMS services are common, they do not always meet the individual needs of consumers.

Many users, especially those who use basic phones or make only voice calls, do not need data or SMS services. On the other hand, people with high data usage but low calling needs may find themselves paying more than necessary for unused calling services.

TRAI’s consultation is aimed at exploring the introduction of product-specific tariffs for voice, SMS and data, in addition to existing bundled options. The regulator is seeking views from stakeholders on these potential changes to the current tariff regulatory framework. Comments are invited by August 16, with counter-comments invited by August 23.

The article highlights the growing perception among consumers that bundled offers are limiting their choices in choosing telecom tariff plans. TRAI is considering whether extending the validity period of STVs and CVs could provide better value and flexibility to users.