Jio continues to be the most affordable telecom operator in India, according to Akash Ambani, managing director of Jio Platforms. This statement comes after Bharti Airtel increased its postpaid plan prices starting October 8, 2026. Despite the price hike by Airtel, Jio has maintained its pricing strategy without major changes, focusing on delivering quality service at affordable rates.
- Jio's average revenue per user (ARPU) rose 3.3% year-on-year to ₹215.6 in Q2 of the financial year.
- Airtel's ARPU increased 5.6% to ₹264 in the same period.
- Airtel raised postpaid tariffs by ₹50 across individual and family plans.
- Jio Platforms is preparing for an initial public offering (IPO).
What changes did Airtel make to its postpaid plans?
Bharti Airtel revised its postpaid plans by increasing prices by ₹50 per month across its portfolio. The entry-level individual plan now costs ₹499, up from ₹449. Family plans with multiple connections also saw price hikes: the two-connection plan increased from ₹699 to ₹749, the three-connection plan from ₹999 to ₹1,049, and the four-connection plan from ₹1,199 to ₹1,249. Additionally, Airtel offers a four-connection plan bundled with a Netflix subscription at ₹1,449.
One notable benefit included in the revamped plans is one free international roaming trip annually. Existing postpaid subscribers are expected to be moved to the nearest higher plan within a month of the revision.
How has Jio responded to Airtel's price increase?
Akash Ambani stated that Jio has always aimed to be the most affordable player in the market while providing high-quality services that offer value for money. He indicated that Jio will not make major changes to its pricing strategy despite Airtel’s tariff revision. This approach aligns with Jio’s goal to maintain affordability for its large subscriber base.
What are the recent financial trends for Jio and Airtel?
In the second quarter of the current financial year, Jio's average revenue per user (ARPU) increased by 3.3% year-on-year to ₹215.6. Airtel's ARPU rose by 5.6% to ₹264 during the same period. These increases reflect a general trend of rising tariffs in the telecom sector, with analysts projecting further price hikes of 12-15% over the next four to five months.
What is the significance of Jio Platforms' upcoming IPO?
Jio Platforms, the digital services and telecom holding company of Reliance Industries, is preparing for an initial public offering (IPO). This move is expected to attract significant investment and support Jio's expansion plans. Maintaining affordable pricing while improving service quality is likely a key strategy to retain and grow its subscriber base ahead of the IPO.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Airtel increase its postpaid plan prices?
A: Airtel raised prices to adjust to market conditions and improve revenue, including offering additional benefits like free international roaming.
Q: Will Jio increase its prices following Airtel's hike?
A: According to Akash Ambani, Jio plans to maintain its affordability and does not intend to make major changes to its pricing.
Q: How do Jio's and Airtel's ARPUs compare?
A: In Q2, Jio's ARPU was ₹215.6, while Airtel's was higher at ₹264, reflecting their different pricing strategies.
Q: What benefits come with Airtel's new postpaid plans?
A: Airtel offers one free international roaming trip annually and various family plan options, including a Netflix bundle.
