TRAI Chief Says Operators Hold Pricing Power as Tariff Speculation Grows
TRAI Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti said telecom pricing remains under a forbearance framework, leaving operators to set tariffs. He dismissed acting on speculation about a possible 10-15 percent increase, saying the regulator would step in only if needed. Lahoti also reiterated that carriers must offer voice- and SMS-only plans despite industry objections.
Anil Kumar Lahoti, chair of India's telecom regulator, indicated that retail telecom pricing sits within a forbearance framework. Under this approach, carriers decide their own rates while the authority keeps watching market behavior. He reportedly declined to treat a rumored 10–15 percent increase as a basis for action, noting intervention would occur only when required.
Lahoti also maintained that voice- and SMS-only offerings remain mandatory, despite objections from service providers. He said such options serve consumers who want to pay only for needed services, including many feature-phone users who do not use mobile data. He described Indian tariffs as among the world's lowest amid strong competition.
If operators raise tariffs, subscribers may face higher monthly costs, while voice- and SMS-only plans could preserve affordable options for people who do not use data. The regulator's stance may shape how carriers balance revenue needs with consumer affordability. It could also affect competition and network investment, though outcomes depend on future pricing decisions and operator compliance.