TRAI’s Rs 20 Rule: How to Keep Your SIM Active Without Monthly Recharges

TRAI’s Rs 20 Rule: Keeping Your SIM Active Without Monthly Recharges

In a significant move benefiting millions of prepaid mobile users, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has clarified its guidelines regarding the deactivation of SIM cards due to inactivity. The rule, originally introduced over a decade ago, ensures that prepaid SIM cards remain active without requiring frequent monthly recharges, provided a minimum balance of Rs 20 is maintained.

This clarification comes as a relief to users, especially those who rely on their phones for occasional use, as it eliminates the need for frequent recharges with higher amounts, such as Rs 199 or more, to keep their SIMs active.

How the Rs 20 Rule Works

1. Inactivity Period:
   • If a SIM card is inactive (no calls, texts, data usage, or services) for 90 days, it is flagged for deactivation.
2. Automatic Deduction:
   • After 90 days of inactivity, Rs 20 will be automatically deducted from the user’s account to keep the SIM card active for an additional 30 days.
3. Sufficient Balance Requirement:
   • As long as the user maintains a balance of Rs 20 or more, the SIM card will remain active through this recurring deduction.
4. Deactivation Threshold:
   • If the account balance falls below Rs 20, the SIM card will be deactivated.
5. Reactivation Option:
   • Users can reactivate their deactivated SIM card within 15 days by recharging their account with at least Rs 20.

Who Benefits from This Rule?

The Rs 20 rule is particularly advantageous for:

• Infrequent Users: People who use their phones sparingly or only for emergencies.
• Secondary SIM Card Users: Individuals maintaining a second SIM card for backup or specific purposes.
• Rural and Elderly Users: Those in areas with limited mobile usage or the elderly who rely on their phones for minimal communication.

Advantages of TRAI’s Rs 20 Rule

1. Cost-Effective: Eliminates the need for high monthly recharges, reducing financial burden.
2. Convenience: Users can maintain their SIM cards without worrying about frequent recharges.
3. Extended Usage: Ensures inactive SIMs remain usable, avoiding the hassle of getting a new number.
4. Flexibility: Reactivation within 15 days allows users to reclaim their number without permanent deactivation.

Important Information: Key Points

1. Inactivity Period: SIM flagged for deactivation after 90 days of no usage.
2. Minimum Balance: Rs 20 deduction every 30 days keeps the SIM active.
3. Deactivation: If the balance falls below Rs 20, the SIM is deactivated.
4. Reactivation: SIMs can be reactivated within 15 days with a Rs 20 recharge.
5. Beneficiaries: Ideal for infrequent, rural, elderly, or secondary SIM users.

TRAI’s Rs 20 rule is a much-needed reform aimed at making mobile connectivity more accessible and affordable. By allowing users to keep their SIM cards active with a minimal balance, this guideline ensures convenience and flexibility for a large section of prepaid users, especially those who rely on their phones for occasional use. This initiative is a step forward in addressing the diverse needs of India’s mobile subscribers while promoting inclusivity in communication services.