TRAI New Rules: When Will Jio, Airtel, Vi, and BSNL SIM Stop Working?

The TRAI new rules on SIM card validity have brought significant relief to mobile users in India. These guidelines are designed to extend the active duration of SIM cards from providers like Jio, Airtel, Vi, and BSNL, helping users avoid frequent recharges and unnecessary expenses. With these updates, managing secondary SIMs or backup numbers has become easier than ever.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the TRAI new rules and how they impact the validity of SIM cards for each telecom provider.

Jio SIM Validity Under TRAI New Rules

Jio users now have more flexibility with their SIM cards, thanks to the new rules:

• Active Period: A Jio SIM will remain active for 90 days without recharge.
• Incoming Call Services:
  • During this 90-day period, incoming call facilities may vary based on the user’s last recharge. For some, it could last a month, while others might have access for a week or a few days.
• Reactivation Plan: After 90 days, users must recharge with a reactivation plan to retain their number.
• Permanent Disconnection: If no action is taken, the SIM will be permanently disconnected and reassigned to another user.

Example: If you haven’t recharged your Jio SIM for three months, you’ll need to recharge with a reactivation plan to keep the number active.

Airtel SIM Validity Under TRAI New Rules

Airtel users benefit from an extended active period, as per the TRAI new rules:

• Active Period: Airtel SIM cards remain active for 90 days without recharge.
• 15-Day Grace Period: After 90 days, users have an additional 15 days to recharge and reactivate their number.
• Recycling of Numbers: If no recharge is made during the grace period, the number is deactivated and reassigned to a new user.

Example: Airtel provides users a buffer period, ensuring they have enough time to retain their number even if they forget to recharge.

Vi SIM Validity Under TRAI New Rules

Vi has aligned its policies with the new guidelines, offering users a grace period to maintain their SIM:

• Active Period: Vi SIM cards stay active for 90 days without recharge.
• Minimum Recharge Requirement: After 90 days, users need to recharge with a minimum plan of Rs. 49 to keep the number active.
• Deactivation Policy: If no recharge is made, the SIM will be deactivated and the number reassigned to another user.

Example: Vi users must remember the Rs. 49 recharge rule to ensure their SIM remains active beyond the 90-day period.

BSNL SIM Validity Under TRAI New Rules

BSNL stands out by offering the longest validity period among all telecom providers:

• Active Period: A BSNL SIM will remain active for 180 days without recharge, making it a great option for users who prefer minimal recharges.
• Prepaid Balance Extension: If the SIM remains inactive for over 90 days but has a prepaid balance of Rs. 20, the balance will be deducted to extend the validity by an additional 30 days.
• Deactivation Policy: If there’s insufficient balance, the SIM will be deactivated and reassigned.

Example: BSNL’s extended validity is ideal for users who rarely use their SIM or keep it as a backup.

Also Read: TRAI Rule Update: How Long Can Jio, Airtel, Vi, and BSNL SIMs Work Without Recharge?

Benefits of TRAI New Rules

1. Longer Validity:
   • SIM cards now stay active for extended periods, reducing the need for frequent recharges.
2. Cost Savings:
   • Users, especially those managing secondary SIMs, can save money by avoiding unnecessary recharges.
3. Convenient Management:
   • Clear guidelines make it easier for users to manage multiple SIM cards effectively.

Tips to Ensure SIM Validity

• Set Reminders: Use phone apps or calendars to track recharge dates.
• Keep a Balance: Maintain a small prepaid balance to avoid unexpected deactivation.
• Choose Long-Term Plans: Opt for plans with extended validity if you tend to forget recharges.

FAQs on TRAI New Rules

1. How long will a Jio SIM remain active without recharge?

A Jio SIM remains active for 90 days without recharge. After this, a reactivation plan is required.

2. What happens if I don’t recharge my Airtel SIM after 90 days?

Airtel provides a 15-day grace period after 90 days. If no recharge is made, the number is deactivated and reassigned.

3. Which provider offers the longest validity under TRAI new rules?

BSNL offers the longest validity, keeping SIMs active for 180 days without recharge.

4. How does BSNL extend validity with a prepaid balance?

If a BSNL SIM has a balance of Rs. 20, the validity is extended by 30 days after 90 days of inactivity.

Conclusion

The TRAI new rules for SIM validity provide much-needed flexibility and convenience for mobile users. Whether you’re using Jio, Airtel, Vi, or BSNL, these guidelines ensure longer active periods, cost savings, and better management of multiple SIMs.

For users looking for maximum flexibility, BSNL’s 180-day validity stands out, while Jio, Airtel, and Vi offer competitive options tailored to shorter durations. By understanding and leveraging these rules, users can keep their SIM cards active and avoid unnecessary disruptions.