With Reliance Jio not showing any signs of unveiling yet another ‘surprise’ offer, telecom tariffs in India seems set to rise, particularly for data.
Vodafone today announced an new tariff pack that offers 1 GB of 3G or 4G data and free calls for Rs 392. However, unlike similar priced offerings by the company in many of its circles, this latest offer — unveiled in Delhi circle — has a validity of just 28 days.
In comparison, Vodafone offers 1 GB of data per day and unlimited calls for Rs 400 in many circles like Kerala under its ‘targeted offers’. It also offered a similar combo pack at Rs 198, but with only free on-net calls.
The fact that the company has officially unveiled the Rs 392 offer as a tariff plan, and not a targeted offer, indicates that this is likely to remain the primary offer from the operator in coming days even as it withdraws ‘targeted’ plans.
This would then imply that the company would take on Reliance Jio’s 309 plan — which offers similar benefits — with the 392 pack.
This would suggest that all operators in India would price their 1GB/day plans between Rs 300 and Rs 400 for 28 days. At present, it costs only around Rs 150.
“Vodafone India one of India’s leading telecom service provider has introduced an innovative combo pack of Rs 392,” the company said.
“Staying connected on roaming will not be an expensive affair anymore; the offer gives unlimited calling both at home and on roaming,” it said.
The company is a challenger in the Delhi market, which is dominated by Bharti Airtel.
“A large part of Vodafone’s pre-paid subscribers from Delhi & NCR go on roaming during the festive season,” said Alok Verma, Business Head – Delhi-NCR, Vodafone India.
Unlike targeted offers of Rs 400 or 450 for 84 days, the 392 scheme can be availed at any of the company’s retail stores or recharge outlets.