- Reliance Jio announces tariff hike effective from July 3, 2024.
- Popular prepaid plans, Rs 395 and Rs 1559, discontinued, causing user rush.
- Other telecom providers, Airtel and Vodafone Idea, also hiking tariffs.
Why Did Reliance Jio Discontinue Popular Plans?
Reliance Jio has announced a significant tariff hike starting July 3, 2024, leading many users to quickly recharge their accounts to avoid the impending higher rates. However, in a surprising move, Jio has discontinued two of its most popular prepaid plans: the Rs 395 and Rs 1559 plans. These plans, known for offering unlimited 5G data and extended validity periods (84 days for the Rs 395 plan and 336 days for the Rs 1559 plan), were highly favored by users.
Customers looking to recharge in advance were disappointed to find these plans no longer available on Jio’s website. Despite Jio’s feature allowing users to queue up prepaid plans for future activation, these specific plans have been removed, likely due to their lower Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) figures which might affect the company’s profitability.
What Are the New Tariff Details?
As part of the broader tariff adjustments, Jio has increased the price of its base Rs 155 plan by 22%, now costing Rs 189. This plan, available for recharge until July 3, offers 2GB of data for 28 days but does not include ‘Unlimited 5G’ like the discontinued Rs 395 and Rs 1559 plans. Currently, only a single pack is listed under the “Affordable Plans” option on Jio’s website.
How Are Other Telcos Responding?
Reliance Jio is not alone in raising tariffs. Competitors Airtel and Vodafone Idea have also announced price hikes. Airtel will implement its new rates from July 3, while Vodafone Idea customers will face higher tariffs starting July 4. These increases reflect a broader strategy among telecom companies to enhance their ARPU and maintain profitability, especially amid the rollout of new 5G services and infrastructure investments.
Customer Reactions
The removal of these cost-effective plans has disappointed many long-term users who relied on them for their affordability and extensive benefits. As the telecom industry adjusts its pricing to meet new demands and financial goals, customers will need to navigate these changes and find new plans that meet their needs.
Leave a Reply