At a time when private telecom operators are steadily increasing their recharge prices, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is continuing its efforts to provide affordable and practical recharge options for its users. Known for its value-for-money plans, BSNL has recently introduced a significant update to one of its low-cost prepaid plans priced under ₹200. This revision aims to offer more balanced benefits in terms of data, voice calls, and SMS.
According to recent internal updates, BSNL has revised its ₹197 recharge plan, which has been one of the most popular choices among users seeking longer validity with basic benefits. While the previous version of the plan focused heavily on daily data and unlimited calls, the updated plan shifts towards a more consistent offering across a longer duration.
Previously, the BSNL ₹197 plan included daily 2GB data, unlimited voice calling, and 100 SMS per day. However, these benefits were only valid for 15 days. Despite the short benefit window, the plan remained active for 70 days, which made it a practical choice for users wanting to keep their SIM active at a low cost.
Now, BSNL has introduced a new version of the ₹197 plan that changes both the structure and the duration of benefits. Under the revised plan, users will get a total of 4GB of data, 300 minutes of voice calling, and 100 SMS, all valid for a duration of 54 days. This means that while the plan no longer offers daily data, the total usage window is much more balanced.
Although the total validity has been reduced from 70 days to 54 days, users now get to enjoy all listed benefits for the entire duration of the plan. Earlier, once the 15-day window ended, users would not receive any data or calling minutes despite the plan being active for another 55 days.
The new version avoids this gap by aligning the validity of data, calls, and SMS with the overall duration of the plan. This approach ensures that users consistently benefit throughout the active period rather than just during the initial days. For users who prefer controlled usage over unlimited daily caps, this change offers more predictable and manageable data and call consumption.
This update comes at a time when BSNL is preparing for a significant milestone — the launch of its 5G services. Several media sources have reported that BSNL may begin its 5G rollout in Delhi by September 2025. This strategic move is part of the company’s broader plan to stay relevant in a competitive telecom market dominated by private players.
By updating plans like the ₹197 recharge with more user-friendly benefits, BSNL is signaling its intention to retain its core base of budget-conscious users. As competition in the telecom space intensifies, especially with the growing demand for mobile data and digital connectivity, BSNL’s affordable offerings provide an essential alternative for millions.
To better understand the update, let’s look at the changes in terms of service value. Previously, the ₹197 recharge was best suited for users wanting temporary high-speed data and unlimited calling. It was also popular among secondary SIM users who wanted long validity without frequent recharges.
The current version, however, aims to provide a more practical experience by offering essential connectivity — 4GB data for browsing or light usage, 300 minutes for important voice calls, and 100 SMS for communication. These features are likely to appeal to low-data users, senior citizens, and those using BSNL as a secondary number for basic functions.
The updated plan appears to target users who don’t need heavy daily data but still want their SIM to remain active for essential tasks. For instance, users in rural areas, senior citizens, students with budget constraints, and low-data users can benefit from this plan.
Additionally, the fixed limit of 300 minutes ensures users don’t over-consume voice calls, which can help manage usage for those who don’t rely on mobile calls extensively. The plan becomes even more attractive for users seeking a low-cost backup number, where high-speed data and unlimited talk time aren’t necessary every day.
While BSNL continues to offer pocket-friendly plans, private telecom companies are revising their tariffs upward. Companies like Vi (Vodafone Idea) and Airtel have already started altering their data benefits. Although some Vi recharge plans now include extra data, most are priced higher than similar BSNL offerings.
In contrast, BSNL’s budget plans like the ₹197 recharge remain among the lowest-cost options in the market, especially for users who want longer validity. The government-backed telecom provider is leveraging this affordability to retain customer loyalty as it transitions towards 5G connectivity in the coming months.
Under the old plan, users experienced a sudden halt in services after the initial 15 days, leading to frustration and confusion. Many would assume that since the plan was still active, data and calling should also continue. The updated structure removes this inconsistency. Now, users get clear benefits over 54 days without the need to calculate when daily services end.
Moreover, the switch to fixed quota instead of daily limits gives users flexibility. They can now choose how and when to use their 4GB of data instead of being restricted to a daily cap. This approach makes the plan more user-controlled and efficient for people with varying usage patterns.
Despite the rise in mobile internet usage and the popularity of unlimited plans, a large number of users in India still seek simple, affordable plans that offer basic services. BSNL’s pricing strategy recognizes this demographic and continues to cater to it with effective offerings like the ₹197 recharge plan.
The new plan provides a longer duration of active service without requiring users to recharge frequently. For users who value consistency over volume, this update will likely be seen as a positive move. The focus is now on simplicity, reliability, and budget-oriented benefits.
In today’s market, where most telecom plans are moving towards high data bundles and high price tags, BSNL’s ₹197 plan holds its ground as a low-cost option with meaningful utility. It does not try to compete with unlimited high-speed data plans but instead focuses on essential mobile connectivity.
The reduced validity compared to the previous 70 days might concern some users. However, considering that the actual benefits were only available for 15 days in the older plan, the new version is more practical. Now, users get a fair trade-off — consistent data, calling, and SMS for a full 54 days at a price point still under ₹200.
With the upcoming 5G launch, BSNL is expected to revise more of its existing plans and possibly introduce new recharge options that combine affordability with modern services. As the telecom landscape continues to evolve, staying relevant will require BSNL to balance innovation with its traditional image of value-driven service.
If the response to the updated ₹197 plan is positive, the telecom operator may consider introducing similar long-validity plans with data sharing, app-based add-ons, or limited-time offers. These enhancements can make BSNL competitive even in a market where premium plans dominate user attention.
BSNL’s decision to revise the ₹197 plan reflects a clear understanding of its customer base. Instead of mimicking the pricing trends of private telecom operators, the company is choosing to reinforce its identity as a budget-friendly alternative. The plan now delivers better benefit alignment, ensuring that users enjoy voice, data, and SMS services throughout the recharge period.
As telecom users in India become more aware of their usage needs, demand is growing for practical, no-frills recharge plans. BSNL’s move with this plan update demonstrates its commitment to customer satisfaction without compromising on affordability. This strategy may well help the brand stay competitive as the industry prepares for the 5G transition.
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