NEW DELHI: Mobile phone users in India might soon have to pay different prices for high speed connectivity, as the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has proposed a major shift in tariff rules. The telecom regulator has released new draft guidelines that would allow service providers to introduce separate recharge plans for 4G and 5G networks.
Currently, telecom operators do not differentiate pricing based on the network generation. However, if these draft rules receive final approval, companies will gain the flexibility to structure their plans differently. The regulator has invited public feedback on these proposed changes until August 26 before taking a final decision.
A key highlight of the draft is the introduction of 5G network slicing. This technology allows operators to divide a single physical network into multiple virtual networks tailored for specific user groups or purposes. Each of these virtual slices could then be sold under a distinct tariff plan. While Airtel has already started utilizing this technology in India, the new rules aim to formalize its commercial application.
To protect consumer interests, the regulatory body has included strict safeguards. The guidelines mandate that premium subscribers cannot monopolize network resources at the expense of regular users. Telecom companies must ensure that providing priority service to premium customers does not degrade the overall service quality for the general public.
Transparency is another major focus area. Under the proposed framework, operators must clearly declare the expected upload and download speeds for every recharge plan. If a user receives speeds that are 80 percent below the promised limit, the company must proactively inform the affected customer and resolve the issue swiftly. Failure to comply could attract hefty penalties ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
The regulator has also addressed network outages. If mobile services remain unavailable for more than 24 hours, telecom operators will be required to compensate users. Postpaid customers would receive a rent rebate, while prepaid users would get a validity extension.
India currently boasts a massive telecom base of 1.3 billion subscribers. Reliance Jio leads the market with 533 million users, including 285 million on its 5G network, followed by Airtel with 483 million users. Vodafone Idea and BSNL rank as the third and fourth largest players respectively, with BSNL being the only major operator yet to launch 5G services. With active internet users rapidly approaching the one billion mark, these proposed regulatory changes will significantly shape the rules of digital connectivity in the country.