TRAI Directs Telecom Operators to Introduce Special Voice and SMS Packs to Benefit Rural Consumers
TRAI Issues New Mandate on Recharge Vouchers.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced the twelfth amendment to the Telecom Consumers Protection Regulations, requiring telecom operators to provide specialized recharge vouchers catering to specific services demanded by stakeholders. This announcement follows an open house discussion held in October, where key issues such as tariff choices, voucher validity, and voucher color coding were addressed.
Key Changes Under the New Regulations
• Standalone Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs): Telecom operators are now required to offer STVs exclusively for voice and SMS services, allowing consumers to pay only for the services they need.
• Extended Validity: The validity period for STVs and Combo Vouchers (CVs) has been extended from 90 days to 365 days, benefiting consumers who prefer long-term plans.
These changes aim to provide greater flexibility and affordability, particularly for senior citizens and rural consumers.
According to the notice, the government watchdog has removed the requirement for color-coded vouchers, opting instead for online recharges. Additionally, it has lifted the restrictions on top-up voucher denominations, which were previously limited to Rs. 10. Telecom operators can now offer vouchers in denominations of their choice, though they must still provide at least one top-up voucher of Rs. 10.
TRAI has also updated the definitions of Special Tariff Vouchers (STVs) and Combo Vouchers (CVs) in the Telecommunication Tariff Order (1999) to align with the changes made in the Telecom Consumers Protection Regulations.
Other Recent Changes
In recent months, TRAI has introduced several new guidelines. In August, the telecom regulator directed network providers to halt promotional calls from unregistered callers. Telecom companies in India have also been instructed to blacklist spam calls.
Last month, TRAI instructed service providers to display geospatial network coverage maps, including information on availability and signal strength. This initiative aims to improve transparency and consistency in wireless access services, empowering users to make more informed decisions.
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