The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has clarified regulations regarding inactive SIM cards, particularly addressing concerns of dual SIM users who maintain secondary SIMs for emergency purposes. These guidelines have become especially relevant following last July’s increase in recharge plan prices.
According to TRAI’s consumer handbook, a SIM card faces deactivation if it remains unused for more than 90 days. However, if the SIM has remaining prepaid balance, Rs 20 will be automatically deducted to extend its activation for an additional 30 days. In cases where the balance is insufficient, the SIM will be deactivated, preventing all communication services, and the number will eventually be recycled for new users.
Users need not worry immediately after the 90-day inactive period, as TRAI provides a 15-day grace period for reactivation. During this time, customers can reactivate their SIM by contacting customer care or visiting a company store. The regulatory body defines “non-usage” as the absence of any activity, including incoming or outgoing calls, messages, data sessions, or interactions with value-added services and payments.
In a related development, a new Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) facility was launched on January 17, enabling Jio, BSNL, and Airtel users to make calls using any available network when their primary network loses signal. This service operates through 4G mobile towers funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN), allowing customers from any network to access 4G services through DBN-supported towers.
