The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has introduced updated guidelines to assist users in maintaining their SIM card activity for extended periods without frequent recharges.
Below is an easy-to-understand summary of these guidelines.
90 Day Inactivity Rule:
- It will be considered inactive if you don’t use your SIM card for 90 days, meaning no calls, texts, or data use.
Automatic Balance Charge:
- If you have at least Rs 20 left on your prepaid balance after those 90 days,
- your provider will automatically take Rs 20 from your account to keep your SIM active for another 30 days.
Total Possible Active Time:
- With this automatic extension, your SIM can stay active for up to 120 days – 90 days first and then
- an extra 30 days without you needing to recharge it.
Low Balance Consequences:
- If your balance drops below Rs 20 after 90 days of inactivity, your SIM will be turned off.
- You won’t be able to make or receive calls, send texts, or use data, and your number might be given to someone else.
Reactivation Period:
- If your SIM is deactivated, you have 15 days to reactivate it by contacting customer service or visiting a store.
What Non-Usage Means:
- TRAI defines non-usage as not having any incoming or outgoing calls, texts, data sessions, or using paid services.
These new rules are designed to help users, especially those with multiple SIM cards, avoid the hassle of frequent recharges and save money.
