In October 2026, Indian operators began listing prepaid plans built only for calling and messaging. Reports said the move followed a directive from the telecom regulator, TRAI, asking operators to offer special voice and SMS vouchers priced lower than their bundled data plans, with an October 21 compliance deadline.
What was announced
Airtel was reported as the first, with three plans on 19 October: ₹185 for 28 days, ₹203 for 30 days and ₹206 for a calendar month. Each gives unlimited local, STD and roaming calls, 300 SMS and HelloTunes. Jio followed on 31 October with a range from ₹147 for 22 days up to ₹1,748 for 336 days. None of these plans include mobile internet.
Who benefits
- Feature phone users who do not use mobile data.
- People who keep a second SIM mainly to receive calls.
- Anyone who uses Wi-Fi for almost all internet use.
Who should not switch
If you use maps, messaging apps, video or UPI payments on mobile data when you are away from Wi-Fi, a voice-only plan will leave you without internet. In that case a plan with data is the safer choice.
What about Vi and BSNL?
At the time of the reports, other operators were expected to list equivalent plans. Check the Vi and BSNL apps for their current voice and SMS options.
Details are based on publicly reported information from October 2026 and can change. Confirm prices in the operator app before you pay.