Mobile Recharge Hike: Will recharges become expensive in the new year? Airtel-Jio-Vi users are anxious

There is speculation that mobile recharge rates in India may soon increase. Jio, Airtel, and Vi are likely to make plans 10-12% more expensive by the end of December or the beginning of the new year. Although there is no official announcement, alerts on payment apps have increased user concerns.

It is speculated that mobile recharges in India may become more expensive from December 2025. It is estimated that Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea may increase their plan prices by 10–12%. However, no official announcement has yet been made by any of the three companies regarding this increase.

On Twitter, @yabhishekhd claimed on X that payment apps are showing notifications to users that recharges will become more expensive from December 1. Many have expressed concern on social media and questioned whether recharge rates will actually increase, as they are receiving alerts to “recharge at the old rates now.”

News suggesting that finance and payment apps are displaying alerts indicating that recharge rates may soon increase are spreading on social media. Users are worried as they are advised to recharge immediately to avoid inflation. Questions are also being raised as to why these alerts are appearing without an official announcement.

According to reports, there may be a significant increase in telecom plans. The monthly plan of 199 rupees is likely to become around 222 rupees, while the long-term plan of 899 rupees is expected to be approximately 1006 rupees. Jio and Airtel have already indicated increases by removing some cheap and 1GB/day plans. It is anticipated that VI may take similar steps due to the need to cover rising costs and raise funds for 5G expansion.

Airtel has caused dissatisfaction among customers by discontinuing its two popular prepaid plans—₹121 and ₹181—without any announcement. These plans, which offered good benefits at a low cost and 30 days validity, were suddenly removed, leaving users with fewer options. According to experts, this decision could be an indication of an upcoming tariff hike.