BSNL Slashes Validity & Revamps Benefits of Rs 197 Prepaid Plan
BSNL has reduced the validity of its popular Rs 197 prepaid recharge plan by 16 days and adjusted call, data, and SMS benefits. Here’s what’s changed and what it means for users.
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BSNL, the state-owned telecom operator, has updated its Rs 197 prepaid plan, cutting the overall validity from 70 to 54 days and scaling back bundled benefits—effective immediately.
| Feature | Old Plan | New Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | 70 days | 54 days |
| Voice | Unlimited local & STD | 300 minutes total |
| Data | 2 GB/day for 15 days + 40 Kbps thereafter | 4 GB total (then 40 Kbps) |
| SMS | 100 SMS/day for 15 days | 100 SMS total |
Previously, users enjoyed unlimited voice, 2 GB/day high-speed data, and 100 SMS/day for 15 days, with benefits extending for 70 days.
Now, the plan limits users to just 300 minutes of voice, a total of 4 GB high-speed data, and 100 SMS overall, all within the shortened 54-day period.
This downgrade follows BSNL’s efforts to boost average revenue per user (ARPU) as it rolls out 4G infrastructure, aiming to re-position the plan for users seeking basic validity over usage benefits.
Despite these changes, BSNL posted a net profit of Rs280 crore in Q4 FY2024–25—an impressive turnaround from the ₹849 crore loss recorded in the same quarter the previous year.
What This Means for Users
Cost-conscious validity seekers may find the plan less attractive due to reduced talk, data, and SMS.
Users who primarily needed a long-term validity booster may need to explore alternative plans or top-ups.
BSNL's pivot reflects a broader strategy to enhance profitability while upgrading network infrastructure.
