New Delhi - Major telecom operators Jio, Airtel, and Vi have announced significant hikes in their mobile data tariffs, affecting millions of consumers across India. The new plans from Jio and Airtel, which are up to 25% more expensive, take effect today. Meanwhile, Vi (Vodafone) will implement its tariff increase starting July 4.

Jio’s Revised Prepaid Plans: Jio has rolled out four new plans with 84 days of validity. The most affordable plan is now priced at Rs 479, up from Rs 395, offering 6GB of 4G data without 5G benefits. The Rs 799 plan, increased from Rs 666, provides 1.5GB of 4G data per day, also without 5G access.

The Rs 859 plan, up from Rs 719, and the Rs 1199 plan, up from Rs 999, offer 2GB and 3GB of 4G data per day, respectively, along with unlimited 5G access for the entire validity period.

Airtel’s New Prepaid Plans: Airtel has introduced three new plans with 84 days of validity. The most budget-friendly plan now costs Rs 509, up from Rs 455, providing 6GB of 4G data and unlimited calling, but no 5G benefits. The Rs 859 plan, previously Rs 719, offers 1.5GB of 4G data per day with unlimited calling, also lacking 5G access.

The Rs 979 plan, up from Rs 839, includes 2GB of 4G data per day, unlimited calling, and 5G network access, catering to heavy data users.

Vi’s Updated Prepaid Plans: Starting July 4, Vi will offer three new plans with 84 days of validity. The entry-level plan is now priced at Rs 509, up from Rs 459, offering 6GB of 4G data and unlimited calling. The Rs 859 plan, increased from Rs 719, provides 1.5GB of 4G data per day.

The top-tier plan, now costing Rs 979, up from Rs 839, offers 2GB of 4G data per day.

Comparative Analysis: Jio's most affordable plan starts at Rs 479, making it the cheapest option for limited data users. Both Jio and Airtel’s top-tier plans, offering unlimited 5G data, are priced similarly, appealing to heavy data consumers.

As the telecom giants grapple with rising costs and slowing subscriber growth, these tariff hikes are seen as a necessary move to sustain their operations. However, for the consumers, this means higher expenses for mobile data and connectivity.