To offer relief to mobile users who often forget to recharge their secondary SIMs, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced new rules to extend SIM card validity. These guidelines will apply to major telecom providers such as Jio, Airtel, Vi, and BSNL, helping users reduce expenses and avoid frequent recharges.
Jio and Airtel SIM Validity Rules: 90 Days Without Recharge
Jio users will have their SIM active for 90 days without a recharge. During this period, the availability of incoming calls may vary based on the user’s last recharge plan. If no recharge is made within the 90 days, the SIM will be permanently disconnected and reassigned to a new user.
Airtel SIMs will stay active for over 90 days without requiring a recharge. Following this period, users will have a 15-day grace period to reactivate their number. If they do not recharge within this time, the number will be closed and made available for a new user.
Vi and BSNL SIM Validity: Extended Periods and Recharge Options
Vi users will have 90 days of validity without needing a recharge. After this period, a minimum recharge of Rs 49 is required to keep the SIM active. On the other hand, BSNL, the government-owned telecom provider, offers the longest validity, with SIMs staying active for up to 180 days without any recharge. This makes BSNL an ideal option for users who prefer to avoid frequent recharges.
If a SIM remains inactive for over 90 days and the user has a prepaid balance of Rs 20, this amount will be deducted to extend the SIM’s activation for an additional 30 days. If the balance is insufficient, the SIM will be deactivated and made available to new users. These changes are designed to offer greater flexibility and convenience for mobile users across India.
