Also Read: Reliance Jio 84-Day Validity Prepaid Plans: April 2026 Edition

Jio Rs 459 Youth and Gaming Plan

The plan offers a 28-day validity period, featuring a data allocation of 61 GB (structured as 2 GB per day plus an additional 5 GB high-speed data). Subscribers also benefit from unlimited voice calling and a daily quota of 100 SMS. Aligning with Jio’s “True 5G” initiative, the plan includes unlimited 5G data for eligible users.

Subscription and Special Offer Benefits

Beyond core connectivity, the Rs 459 pack stands out for its content bundling. It includes a Snapchat+ subscription alongside access to JioGames Mobile and FanCode (via JioTV). Furthermore, the plan offers a 3-month mobile subscription to JioHotstar and 50 GB of JioAICloud storage, positioning it as a value-heavy proposition for entertainment seekers.

Google Gemini AI Benefit

In a significant collaborative push, the plan also features a premium Google Gemini offer. Subscribers are eligible for an 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini, valued at Rs 35,100. This high-tier AI benefit includes 5,000 GB of cloud storage and access to the “Nano Banana” model features. To maintain these extended AI benefits, users must remain active on a qualifying Jio plan, reinforcing the telco’s ecosystem lock-in strategy.

Jio Rs 459 Youth and Gaming Plan Benefits

Plan Type: Youth and Gaming Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 2 GB/day + 5GB extra (61 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 28 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioAICloud: Free 50 GB storage, JioTV, Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100, with 5000 GB cloud storage, JioHotstar: Mobile subscription 3 months, Subscription to JioGames Mobile, Snapchat+ (via Myjio) and Fancode (via JioTV).
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 16.39

WhatsApp has launched a feature for Indians, and this one is aimed at making their life easier. You will now be able to carry out mobile SIM recharges directly within the app. WhatsApp has started rolling out the feature for the users with the latest update. It will be available for both iOS and Android users in India. The functionality will let users with prepaid connections recharge on the go using the WhatsApp application itself. The app already allows users to make bill payments and metro tickets in select Indian cities.

Read More – Nothing Launches Essential Voice: What You Need to Know

To enable this feature in India, WhatsApp has collaborated with PayU. The recharge plans of Jio, Airtel and Vodafone Idea will be available on the platform. These are all the private telecom operators in India and to make the payments accessible, WhatsApp has used the rupee icon for users to easily understand and navigate.

Read More – OpenAI Releases GPT-5.5 for Plus, Pro, and Business Users

Not just for yourself, but you will also be able to recharge other people’s numbers using the service. Mobile connections in India are dominated by prepaid connections, and this feature will allow millions of users in the country to recharge on the go.

Reliance Jio 84-Day Prepaid Plans

1. Jio Rs 369 – JioBharat Phone Plan

Plan Type: JioBharat Phone Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 0.5 GB/day (42 GB) along with 300 SMS/28 Days. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioSaavn, JioTV,
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 4.39

2. Jio Rs 448 – Value Plan

Plan Type: Value – Voice Only
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice along with 1000 SMS.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 5.33

3. Jio Rs 799 – Affordable Pack

Plan Type: Value – Affordable Pack
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 1.5 GB/day (126 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Benefits: JioAICloud, JioTV, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100, with 5000 GB cloud storage.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 9.51

4. Jio Rs 859 – True 5G Unlimited Plan

Plan Type: True 5G Unlimited Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 2 GB/day (168 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioAICloud: Free 50 GB storage, JioTV, Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100, with 5000 GB cloud storage, JioHotstar: Mobile subscription 3 months.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 10.22

5. Jio Rs 889 – JioSaavn Pro Plan

Plan Type: JioSaavn Pro Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 1.5 GB/day (126 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioSaavn Pro, JioTV, JioAICloud, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100, with 5000 GB cloud storage.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 10.58

6. Jio Rs 949 – JioHotstar Plan

Plan Type: JioHotstar Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 2 GB/day (168 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud with Free 50 GB storage, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100, with 5000 GB cloud storage, JioHotstar: Mobile subscription 3 months, Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 11.29

7. Jio Rs 1028 – Rs 50 CachBack Plan

Plan Type: Rs 50 Cashback and Swiggy One
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 2 GB/day (168 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud with Free 50 GB storage, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100, with 5000 GB cloud storage, JioHotstar: Mobile subscription 3 months, Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers, Swiggy One membership. Get Rs 50 cashback on a recharge of Rs 1028, which can be redeemed on a subsequent recharge of Rs 1028.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 12.28

8. Jio Rs 1029 – Amazon Prime Lite Plan

Plan Type: True 5G Unlimited Plan, Amazon Prime Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 2 GB/day (168 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud with Free 50 GB storage, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100, with 5000 GB cloud storage, JioHotstar: Mobile subscription 3 months, Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers, and 84 Days Amazon Prime Lite subscription.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 12.25

9. Jio Rs 1049 – ZEE5-SonyLIV Combo Plan

Plan Type: True 5G Unlimited Plan, SonyLiv and ZEE5 Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 2 GB/day (168 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud with Free 50 GB storage, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100 with 5000 GB cloud storage, JioHotstar: Mobile subscription 3 months, Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers, and Subscription to Sony LIV and ZEE5 via JioTV Mobile App.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 12.48

10. Jio Rs 1199 – True 5G Unlimited Plan

Plan Type: True 5G Unlimited Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 3 GB/day (252 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud with Free 50 GB storage, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100 with 5000 GB cloud storage, JioHotstar: Mobile subscription 3 months, Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 14.27

11. Jio Rs 1299 – Netflix Plan

Plan Type: True 5G Unlimited Plan, Netflix Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 2 GB/day (168 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud with Free 50 GB storage, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100 with 5000 GB cloud storage, JioHotstar: Mobile subscription 3 months, Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers, and Netflix (Mobile) subscription.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 15.64

12. Jio Rs 1799 – Netflix Plan

Plan Type: True 5G Unlimited Plan, Netflix Plan
Core Benefits: Unlimited Voice, 3 GB/day (252 GB) along with 100 SMS/Day. After the high-speed data quota, speed is reduced to up to 64 Kbps.
Validity: 84 days
Subscriptions and Special Offer Benefits: JioTV, JioAICloud with Free 50 GB storage, 18-month Pro Plan of Google Gemini worth Rs 35,100 with 5000 GB cloud storage, JioHotstar: Mobile subscription 3 months, Unlimited 5G data for eligible subscribers, and Netflix (Basic) subscription.
Effective Per Day Pricing: Rs 21.41

With evolving data consumption patterns and increased reliance on mobile connectivity, Jio’s 84-day prepaid plans continue to play a significant role in the Indian telecom market. The operator is expected to further refine its offerings in response to competitive pressures and changing user requirements in the coming months.

Also in the 84-Day Validity Series:

Airtel 84-Day Prepaid Recharge Plans: Here’s What You Get in April 2026

Nothing has just announced Essential Voice for the customers. This is a very useful software for the users, and one that will definitely be in focus by the other brands too. It will help you capture, find, recall and create by adapting to how you think and live into speech. Nothing is not only making great and cool hardware, but also pretty cool software as well. So what is Essential Voice? Let us explain.

Read More – OpenAI Releases GPT-5.5 for Plus, Pro, and Business Users

Nothing Essential Voice Explained

Nothing understood something very essential about the way humans communicate – which is they don’t naturally type to communicate, they speak. Speaking has been the core of communication for humans for at least 1,35,000 years. Whereas typing, it is a relatively new feature. Nothing shared that people on average type 36 words per minute, while speak over 150 a minute comfortably. That’s about 4x faster, and more efficient as well.

However, the voice to text support that most phones, including the best ones in the market support today isn’t as good as what users would want when they need to rely on the tool during an important scenario. Traditional dictation turns speech into text, but leaves you with winding, fragmented text – it transcribes word-for-word, including ums, uhs and stutters.

Read More – ASUS ExpertBook Ultra Launched in India: Price and Specifications

But Nothing’s Essential Voice changes that now for the users. It will be first available for Phone (3), Phone (4a) Pro, and Phone (4a). Just long-press the Essential Key or activate Essential Voice on the keyboard. Speak naturally, and your words will be turned into clean, ready-to-use writing. It will automatically tidy up your words, so your text sounds like finished writing – not a transcript. It’s also built into the places you write, so you don’t have to leave your conversation to benefit.

There’s support for over 100+ languages right now. In the future, the update for Nothing Essential Voice will also get context awareness, allowing Essential Voice to adapt to where you’re writing – like messages, work emails or searches.

OpenAI, an AI (artificial intelligence) company, has just announced the release of GPT 5.5, its smartest and most intuitive model yet. The company said that GPT 5.5 understands what the user is trying to do much faster and excels at writing and debugging code. Further, the model excels at researching online, analysing data, and creating documents and spreadsheets.

Read More – OnePlus Nord CE 6 Details Confirmed Ahead of Launch

The new model from OpenAI is now rolling out for everyone globally. Note that this model will be only available for the Plus, Pro, Business, and Enterprise users only in ChatGPT and Codex. Further, the GPT 5.5 Pro will only be available for the Pro, Business, and Enterprise customers in ChatGPT.

Here are the few highlights of the new model highlighted by the company:

• GPT 5.5 is better at understanding intent and finding information for the users.
• The model is also great at thinking and unlocks faster help for harder problems.
• GPT 5.5 Pro performs really well when it comes to business, legal, education, and data science.
• In Codex, GPT 5.5 is better than GPT 5.4 at creating spreadsheets, tables, and documents.
• The speed isn’t compromised for the additional intelligence, which is an important aspect of the model.

Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL), the third-largest telecom operator in India, is now adding subscribers. We are not only talking about the overall susbcriber base, but also the active users. This is the user metric that is important. If the telco’s overall susbcriber base grows, but the active susbcriber base is not growing, then it is not really useful. The active users of the telco are the ones paying for services. According to the TRAI (telecom regulatory authority of India) data for March 2026, Vodafone Idea has added active users.

Read More – Vivo X300 Ultra 5G, Vivo X300 FE 5G India Launch Date Confirmed

Vodafone Idea Active Users in March 2026

Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) reported its total active user base at 169.30 million at the end of March 2026, while it stood at 169.10 million at the end of February 2026. The overall user base also increased from 198.38 million to 198.48 million. Vi’s 85.30% of the user base is active in nature, meaning paying for the services. The other approximately 15% is dead weight at the moment.

Read More – Vodafone Idea, BSNL Add Subscribers in March 2026

Vodafone Idea adding subscribers means that the overall strategy is somehow working for the company. Vi has been aggressively spending money on its network infrastructure. The telco has managed to modernise infrastructure in many parts of the country and has also rolled out 5G to cater to users who require high-speed network access.

The telco has been losing subscribers for a very long-time. Thus, this addition, however small it may be, is a big positive. It will be important for Vi to carry this momentum and keep adding subscribers, even if it is small numbers. The telco’s overall subscriber base is now under 200 million, which it would want to change as fast as possible. Meanwhile, Reliance Jio has scaled beyond 500 million wireless susbcribers. This is a huge achievement by an Indian telecom operator.

Also Read: Vi Brings 5G to Chennai, Targets Coimbatore, Trichy and More Cities by May 2026

More Haryana Cities Set for Vi 5G Launch

As part of its planned rollout, Vi said on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, that it will also launch 5G services to Hisar, Bhiwani, Karnal, Bahadurgarh, and Rohtak by May 2026. To expand its 5G services, the company is prioritising key industrial corridors, high data consumption zones, and emerging urban clusters to enhance network coverage and user experience.

Focus on Industrial Corridors and High Data Usage Zones

The company emphasized that cities such as Panipat and Ambala have been prioritised due to their status as major industrial hubs driving significant data demand. Similarly, upcoming launches in Karnal, a key commercial and transit center, along with Rohtak and Hisar—known for their educational and administrative significance—reflect Vi’s strategic approach. Emerging residential and industrial centers like Bahadurgarh and Bhiwani are also part of this expansion, driven by increasing data consumption trends.

Rahul Joshi, Circle Business Head for Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir at Vi, stated that the expansion is aligned with the company’s strategy of strengthening its footprint in high-demand locations.

Also Read: Vodafone Idea Expands Network in Bihar and Jharkhand with 5,100 New Sites

Company Leadership Highlights Growth Vision

“We are accelerating the expansion of Vi’s 5G network across Haryana, as we strengthen our footprint across key markets in the state. Following our launch in Sonipat, and upcoming launches in Panipat and Ambala, followed by Hissar, Bhiwani, Karnal, Bahadurgarh and Rohtak mark important steps in this journey,” Joshi said.

He added, “Our expansion is guided by a clear focus on prioritising high-demand locations spanning high data consumption centres as well as areas with significant footfall, including industrial and commercial hubs, ensuring a consistent and enhanced network experience for our users.”

BSNL’s Shift from 3G to 4G Gains Momentum

The remarks came during the Strategic Review and Planning Meet (SRPM) held at Vigyan Bhawan, where BSNL’s annual results for FY 2025–26 were reviewed. The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Communications Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Telecom Secretary Amit Agarwal, BSNL Chairman and Managing Director A. Robert J. Ravi, senior officials from the Department of Telecommunications, and Chief General Managers from across the country, according to an official release from the Ministry of Communications dated April 23, 2026.

Highlighting BSNL’s strategic shift, Scindia said the company’s progress aligns with the Centre’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision and marks India’s entry into an elite group of five nations with end-to-end indigenous telecom capabilities.

“BSNL has successfully transitioned from a 3G provider to a competitive 4G player, playing a pivotal role in the Hon’ble PM’s Vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. It holds historic significance of India joining an elite group of just five countries worldwide to develop end-to-end indigenous telecom capabilities,” the Union Minister said.

BSNL ARPU Jumps 42 Percent in FY 2025–26

A detailed review of operational performance showed significant gains in key metrics, including Quality of Service (QoS), subscriber growth, and revenue generation. BSNL’s Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) rose sharply to Rs 101 in FY 2025–26 from Rs 71 in the previous fiscal, registering a 42 per cent year-on-year increase.

Odisha Emerges as Top-Performing Circle

The Odisha telecom circle emerged as the overall best performer, recording around 21 per cent growth in service revenue and consistently meeting performance benchmarks. It also led the Enterprise Business (EB) segment with a 68 per cent growth. At the national level, the EB vertical was recognised as the Best Performing Business Vertical, posting a 15 per cent rise in revenue from serves over the previous year.

Other notable performances included Karnataka circle’s strong EBITDA growth, while Assam and Jharkhand reported positive expansion across all three business segments. Uttar Pradesh (East) and Jharkhand were also commended for significant improvements in FTTH ARPU.

Enterprise Business Leads Revenue Growth Nationwide

Looking ahead to FY 2026–27, the Minister stressed the importance of focused execution, accountability, and rigorous monitoring at the circle level. He urged all CGMs to emulate the best practices of high-performing circles to ensure sustained momentum, improved customer experience, and continued financial excellence in the years ahead.

Scindia also “underscored the necessity of continued alignment with telecom equipment manufacturers to strengthen the domestic ecosystem and consolidate India’s position as a global leader in indigenous telecom technology.”

ASUS has launched a new laptop in India, and this one is called the ExpertBook Ultra. The ExpertBook Ultra is designed for CXOs and business leaders in the country. What’s more is that this laptop comes with Copilot + PC integration for enhancing the productivity of the users. Along with this, the company has unveiled the ExpertBook P series new models as well. However, we will keep our focus on the ExpertBook Ultra which is the top of the line offering from the company right now for business users.

Read More – OPPO Find X9 Ultra and Find X9s Confirmed for India

The highlight of the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra is its ultra-light design, vivid display, elite cutting-edge AI-powered performance, enterprise-grade security, millitary grade durability, and more. This is an ultra-portable laptop, and very strong too to last long. The ExpertBook Ultra features the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processor, an incredible GPU, and an advanced NPU.

Read More – Vivo Hikes Price of Multiple Devices in India

The laptop weighs just 0.99 Kg, which is under a KG. Users can now pre-order the ASUS ExpertBook Ultra on Flipkart at a starting price of Rs 2,39,990 (including taxes). With an Axis Bank card, users will get Rs 20,000 off on their purchase.

Why Dark Mode Is Not Always Better

Over the last few years, dark themes have gained widespread popularity across apps, operating systems, and browsers. They are often preferred for their clean look and reduced eye strain, particularly during long usage sessions. However, many users have started noticing a common problem. Most dark themes rely heavily on flat black or uniform grey tones. While this creates a minimal aesthetic, it also removes visual separation between elements.

In Chrome, this becomes especially noticeable in the tab bar when multiple tabs are open, active and inactive tabs tend to blend together, making it harder to quickly identify where you are for users handling research, work dashboards, or multiple workflows, this lack of clarity can slow things down.

QxA Dark Pro Tries a Different Approach

QxA Dark Pro introduces a layered dark design instead of a flat one. Rather than using a single shade, it applies multiple levels of charcoal grey across the browser interface this helps create a clear distinction between the frame, toolbar, active tab, and inactive tabs.

The active tab appears more prominent, while background tabs remain visible without becoming distracting. The goal is to improve navigation without changing how Chrome fundamentally works.

Built for Heavy Tab Users

The theme is designed with a specific type of user in mind people who keep many tabs open at once this includes researchers, developers, writers, and anyone who frequently switches between multiple pages. In such cases, even a small improvement in tab visibility can make a noticeable difference in usability.

Instead of focusing purely on aesthetics, QxA Dark Pro leans toward a productivity-first approach. It aims to reduce confusion and make tab tracking easier during extended browsing sessions.

No Pure Black, More Comfortable Contrast

Another notable design choice is the absence of pure black the theme uses layered charcoal tones to create a softer visual experience. This reduces harsh contrast and makes the interface more comfortable for long-term use. The result is a darker interface that feels balanced rather than overly aggressive.

The design also carries subtle inspiration from macOS-style UI elements, giving it a more refined and structured look.

A Growing Focus on Browser Experience

As browsers increasingly become the primary workspace for many users, small design improvements are gaining more importance from web-based tools to cloud platforms, much of today’s work happens inside Chrome this means that even minor usability issues, such as tab visibility, can have a cumulative impact over time.

Themes like QxA Dark Pro highlight how the focus is shifting from just appearance to functionality.

Simple Installation, Immediate Effect

Like other Chrome themes, QxA Dark Pro does not require any setup once installed, the theme is applied instantly across the browser users do not need to adjust settings or customise anything manually. The changes are visible immediately, especially in the tab bar and toolbar areas.

Dark mode is here to stay, but its current implementation is not perfect.

QxA Dark Pro attempts to refine the experience by solving a practical issue that many users face daily by improving tab contrast and introducing a layered design, it offers a more usable version of dark mode for Chrome.

For users who rely heavily on multitasking in their browser, this could be a small but meaningful upgrade.

Feb 2026: Vodafone Idea Gains 21,927 Wireless Subscribers, TRAI February 2026 Data

Overall wireless (Mobile) subscriber base

The telecom operator reported a total wireless (mobile) subscriber base of 198,484,795 (198.48 million) at the end of March 2026, registering net additions of 102,899 (around 0.10 million) during the month, compared with 21,927 additions in February 2026. Vi also reported 92,892,586 rural subscribers and 19.58 million M2M cellular mobile connections, translating into a 15.81 per cent market share at the end of March 2026.

M2M segment fuels growth

However, the overall subscriber growth was primarily driven by additions in the M2M or enterprise segment, which typically yield significantly lower average revenue per user (ARPU) than consumer mobility services. Vi’s M2M cellular connections rose from 19.32 million in February 2026 to 19.58 million in March 2026, reflecting an increase of 0.26 million connections. Under TRAI’s classification, total wireless (mobile) connections comprise both consumer SIMs and M2M SIMs.

Consumer mobility segment continues to decline

Based on this framework, and excluding M2M connections, Vi is estimated to have lost around 0.157 million (approximately 0.16 million) consumer SIM connections in March 2026 and approximately 0.49 million users in February 2026 in the same segment.

Regional losses across circles

Circle-wise data showed that the operator lost wireless (mobile) subscribers across several regions, with the most significant decline reported in Delhi. Other circles that witnessed subscriber losses included Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, North East, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh (West), and West Bengal.

Also Read: Bharti Airtel Adds Over 5 Million Wireless Subscribers in March 2026: TRAI Data

Competitive pressure remains

The figures indicate continued pressure on Vi’s core mobile subscriber base, even as its non-consumer segment contributes to the growth of wireless (mobile) connections. In comparison, Bharti Airtel added 1.59 million users (excluding M2M) in March, slightly behind Reliance Jio’s 1.74 million additions, highlighting sustained competitive intensity in the sector.

The latest TRAI subscriber data for March 2026 suggests that a clear shift may be underway in this high-value circle. Bharti Airtel added 7,37,827 subscribers in Delhi during the month, while Reliance Jio lost 31,393 subscribers, Vodafone Idea lost 2,30,959 subscribers, and BSNL/MTNL lost 1,526 subscribers. These are not just routine monthly changes together, they point to a deeper movement in user preference one that appears to be tilting in favour of Airtel.

Airtel’s Gains Reflect a Shift in User Trust

Airtel’s recent growth suggests that users are not just staying they are actively choosing the network. Over time, Airtel has built a positioning around reliability, consistency, and overall service quality. In a city like Delhi, where network usage is intensive and continuous, that positioning appears to be translating into real subscriber gains.

Users in the capital are increasingly sensitive to everyday network performance call drops during meetings, buffering while streaming, or inconsistent speeds during peak hours. These are not minor inconveniences; they directly affect daily routines. Airtel’s surge indicates that it is currently perceived as delivering a more dependable experience in such situations.

Jio’s Decline Points to Emerging Pressure

Jio’s loss of 31,393 subscribers in Delhi may not appear dramatic in isolation, but it becomes more meaningful when viewed against Airtel’s strong additions. In a market like Delhi, where competition is intense and switching barriers are low, even a modest decline can signal shifting user sentiment.

Jio’s growth story across India has been built on scale, affordability, and high data consumption that model has proven highly effective, particularly in expanding access and driving usage. However, metro markets such as Delhi operate under different conditions. High user density and heavy traffic place greater stress on networks, making consistency and performance more critical than ever.

The latest data suggests that Reliance Jio may be facing early signs of pressure in this environment this does not diminish its overall strength, but it does highlight a challenge ensuring that a scale-driven model continues to deliver consistent quality in the most demanding urban markets.

Vodafone Idea’s Losses Reinforce Market Reality

Vodafone Idea’s loss of over 2.30 lakh subscribers in Delhi while the operator’s broader challenges are well known, the scale of decline in a single month highlights how quickly users can move when expectations are not met.

In markets like Delhi, users tend to make decisions based on experience rather than long-term loyalty network perception plays a critical role, and once that perception weakens, subscriber erosion can accelerate. Vi’s losses reinforce the idea that the market is becoming increasingly unforgiving, leaving little room for operators that are unable to match evolving user expectations.

BSNL/MTNL Remain on the Margins

BSNL/MTNL recorded a decline of 1,526 subscribers in Delhi during the month while relatively small, it indicates that state-run networks continue to struggle to gain traction in a highly competitive urban market. In contrast to Airtel’s strong growth, the absence of gains from other operators further strengthens the narrative of a one-sided shift. Delhi, at least for now, appears to be moving decisively in one direction.

A Clear Shift Towards Experience-Led Choices

The most important takeaway from the March 2026 data is not just the movement of subscribers, but what that movement represents. Delhi users appear to be prioritising experience over price. This includes factors such as call reliability, stable data speeds, low latency, and fewer interruptions during peak usage. In a metro environment where digital dependence is high, these elements can significantly influence user satisfaction.

Airtel’s surge suggests that it is currently aligning more closely with these expectations. The operator’s focus on network investment and service consistency seems to be resonating with users who are increasingly evaluating networks based on real-world performance rather than headline tariffs.

Delhi May Be Signalling a Larger Shift

The TRAI data for March 2026 presents a clear contrast in Delhi. Bharti Airtel added 7,37,827 subscribers, while Jio lost 31,393, Vodafone Idea lost 2,30,959, and BSNL/MTNL lost 1,526. In a market where competition is intense and user expectations are high, such divergence is difficult to ignore.

More importantly, the data suggests a shift in how users are making choices. Price alone may no longer be the primary driver in metro markets. Instead, network experience how well a service performs in everyday conditions is emerging as a key differentiator. If the trend continues, Delhi may not just reflect the telecom battle in India it could shape the next phase of competition, where experience, not just pricing, defines the winner.

OnePlus Nord CE 6 is set to launch in India on May 7, 2026. Along with this, there will be OnePlus Nord CE 6 Lite 5G. The Nord CE 6 will be available in three colours – Lunar Pearl, Fresh Blue, and Pitch Black. The Nord CE 6 will feature a 50MP main camera with dual-axis OIS support and will also come with a 32MP sensor at the front for selfies and video calling.

Read More – OPPO Find X9 Ultra and Find X9s Confirmed for India

It will run on Android 16 based OxygenOS 16 out of the box. The phone will bring enhanced camera modes including motion photos with 4K support along with suite of AI-powered editing tools such as AI Portrait Glow, AI Perfect Shot, AI Eraser, AI Unblur, AI Reflection Eraser, AI Detail Boost, and AI Reframe.

There will be Google Gemini powered AI features such as Circle to Search and Gemini Live. This will make the interactions more intiuitive and efficient for the users. The phone will also feature dual-stereo speakers with up to 300% ultra volume support. The Nord CE 6 will feature Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 SoC and will feature a dedicated Touch Reflex Chip which will bring support for 3200Hz touch sampling rate for an enhanced gaming experience.

Read More – Vivo Hikes Price of Multiple Devices in India

The device will pack an 8000mAh battery with support for 80W SUPERVOOC fast-charging and 27W reverse charging. The display will support 144Hz refresh rate and 1.5K resolution. The device will also feature the following IP ratings – IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K.

Nationwide Tribute to 150 Years of Vande Mataram

The year 2025 marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, a work widely regarded as a defining symbol of India’s freedom movement and cultural identity. The commemoration is being observed on a national scale with participation from States, Union Territories, central ministries, Indian missions abroad, and citizens worldwide. The song’s portrayal of the motherland as the Divine Feminine continues to resonate as a powerful expression of national pride and unity, according to a statement from the Ministry of Culture dated April 22, 2026.

Categories for Participation

Under the “VM Frames” initiative, filmmakers, content creators, and citizens are invited to reimagine the ethos of Vande Mataram through contemporary formats. The competition features three categories—Reels, AI-based films, and short films—with entries encouraged to reflect themes of patriotism, cultural identity, national unity, and the vision of a progressive New India.

Awards and Prize Structure

The competition offers awards totalling up to Rs 50 lakh across categories. In the Reels category, prizes include Rs 1.5 lakh for first place, Rs 1 lakh for second, and Rs 50,000 for third. The AI-based films category carries awards of Rs 5 lakh, Rs 3 lakh, and Rs 1.5 lakh for the top three positions respectively. In the short films category, winners will receive Rs 15 lakh, Rs 12 lakh, and Rs 10 lakh respectively.

Submission Timeline and Details

Submissions for the competition will remain open until 7 May 2026. Detailed information is available on the official website vande mataram150.in.

Ministry Calls for Youth Participation in Cultural Expression

The Ministry of Culture has extended an open invitation, particularly to young creators, to participate in what it describes as a national tribute and contribute to a collective cultural expression that bridges India’s historical legacy with its contemporary creative voice.

“As India celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram, this initiative aims to rekindle pride in the nation’s shared heritage and inspire a renewed connection with the ideals that shaped its freedom and continue to define its future,” the Ministry said.

Vivo, a major smartphone maker will soon bring the Vivo X300 Ultra 5G and Vivo X300 FE 5G to India. This will join the existing lineup of Vivo X300 Pro and Vivo X300 5G in the country. The Vivo X300 Ultra 5G was first showcased at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026. The phone was also recently launched for the China market. The company has now confirmed the launch date of these devices in India. Let’s take a look at them.

Read More – OPPO Find X9 Ultra and Find X9s Confirmed for India

Vivo X300 Ultra 5G, Vivo X300 FE 5G India Launch Date

Vivo X300 Ultra 5G and Vivo X300 FE 5G are confirmed to launch in India on May 6, 2026, at 12 PM IST. The company confirmed this via a social media post on X (formerly Twitter). The Vivo X300 FE 5G will be available in multiple colours including Lilac Purple, Urban Olive, and Noir Black.

Read More – Vivo Hikes Price of Multiple Devices in India

The device’s microsite is now live for India, and it will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 SoC coupled with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.1 internal storage. The device will pack a 6500mAh battery with support for 90W wired and 40W wireless charging. Both phones will be geared for performance and camera enthusiasts as the X series always is. More details will come as the launch nears.

Strengthening India’s Role in Global Telecom Standardization

“The revised guidelines for the Technology Development and Investment Promotion (TDIP) Scheme of the Department of Telecommunications, are aimed at strengthening India’s participation in global telecom standardization and accelerating the development of indigenous telecom technologies,” according to an official statement from the Ministry of Communications dated April 22, 2026.

“The revised TDIP Scheme, with a total outlay of Rs 203 crore for the period 2026–31, has been designed as a comprehensive support framework to enable Indian entities to actively contribute to global standards, promote innovation, and enhance India’s competitiveness in next-generation telecommunications technologies, including 5G Advanced and 6G,” the Ministry said.

Financial Support for Global Participation and Leadership

The scheme seeks to enhance India’s representation and influence in leading international telecom standardization bodies such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), 3GPP and oneM2M.

It provides financial support to Indian stakeholders for participation in global meetings, submission of technical contributions, leadership roles in study groups, and hosting of international standardization events in India.

The initiative also aims to strengthen India’s influence in shaping global telecom standards and facilitate the integration of domestic technologies into internationally accepted frameworks.

The scheme aims to strengthen India’s position from a technology participant to a global standard-setter, while driving creation of intellectual property, enhancing export potential and improving competitiveness of domestic telecom products and solutions.

Expanded Scope to Include Startups, MSMEs, and Academia

The revised guidelines significantly expand the scheme’s scope to include startups, MSMEs, academia, research institutions, telecom service providers and industry players, with the aim of fostering deeper ecosystem participation and collaborative innovation. The scheme will also support pilot projects, proof-of-concept initiatives, and technology demonstrations to enable a faster transition from research to commercial deployment.

Institutional Framework for Effective Implementation

Implementation will be carried out through agencies such as the Telecommunications Standards Development Society India, Telecom Centres of Excellence India and Telecommunications Consultants India Limited, which will facilitate coordination, capacity building, effective utilization of resources, and industry engagement.

Boosting Indigenous Innovation and Global Competitiveness

According to the Communications Ministry, this scheme complements other initiatives of the Department of Telecommunications, including the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF) and the Bharat 6G Mission, in creating a comprehensive framework for next-generation telecom research, development and deployment.

The government said, “The release of the revised TDIP Scheme guidelines marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s presence in global telecom standardization processes and accelerating the development of indigenous next-generation technologies. The scheme is expected to play a pivotal role in positioning India as a global leader in 6G and future communication systems.”

Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), the two struggling telecom operators in India, added new wireless subscribers in the March 2026. The data was shared by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on its monthly performance indicator report. While Jio and Airtel also added subscribers, it is a normal scenario for the industry. Jio and Airtel always add subscribers, but the interesting thing which happened was that BSNL and Vodafone Idea have now also added new customers.

Read More – Telcos Hike Tariffs, but a Bigger Round Feels Around the Corner

Vodafone Idea, BSNL Add Wireless Subscribers in March 2026 as per TRAI Data

According to TRAI data, Vodafone Idea added 102,899 new wireless subscribers, and BSNL added 17,095 new wierless users during March 2026. At the same time, Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio added 5,094,968 and 3,227,542 new users. So while the maximum users went to the top two players, it is still worth noting that Vodafone Idea adding new users suggests that the company’s investments are bringing in some positive results in performance.

Read More – Bharti Airtel Adds Over 5 Million Wireless Subscribers in March 2026: TRAI Data

The industry added a total of 8,433,403 new users, which is great for the telecom players and their investments. With an expected tariff hike in the near future, the telecom players will also improve their margins.

Telecom operators like Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio have engaged in a small round of tariff hikes in a very silent manner. This keeps happening every few weeks and months. The telcos tweak the plans to improve margins on services. This is the nature of the business. Much recently, Airtel hiked the the tariffs for the users by removing the Rs 799 and the Rs 859 plans, and now instead offers the Rs 899 plan in place of Rs 859 option. This marks a silent hike, and while it is not a big one, it is substantial for the users to note.

Read More – BSNL has a New Strategy to Boost SIM Sales

Reliance Jio made a change to the validity benefit of its Rs 195 data voucher. The telco’s Rs 195 data voucher now has a standalone validity of 30 days instead of the earlier 90 days. While there’s data and OTT (over-the-top) benefits bundled, it still shows a substantial hike in the cost of using this plan.

BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) is also known to keep hiking tariffs for users silently and indirectly. The state-run telecom operator doesn’t directly increase the prices of its plans. Instead, BSNL reduces the service validity offered with the plan in a silent manner. All these are small hikes and account for marginal improvement in revenues and margins for the businesses.

Read More – Airtel Rs 929 Plan is Better Option than Rs 899 Plan

But now, we expect the telcos to go bigger in the near future. It has almost been two years since the telcos increased the prices of the plans. Given the trend of the hikes for the last few times, the telcos have increased the prices every two years. So we, along with the other industry experts, believe that the next round of hikes is very close. The hikes need to come for Jio to also improve IPO (initial public offering) prospects.

FWA Subscribers — 5G and UBR Breakdown

Total wireless 5G FWA subscribers increased from 11.93 million at the end of February 2026 to 12.32 million at the end of March 2026, with 6.17 million (50.37 percent) in urban areas and 6.15 million (49.63 percent) in rural areas.

As of March 2026, Bharti Airtel reported a 5G FWA subscriber base of 3,737,658 (an addition of 148,514), while Reliance Jio reported 8,584,110 (an addition of 241,675) 5G FWA users, bringing the total to 12,321,768.

Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited, the only operator reporting UBR FWA subscribers, increased its UBR FWA base from 4,086,086 at the end of February to 4,285,595 at the end of March, adding 199,509 users.

“UBR FWA subscription stood at 4.29 million at the end of March 2026 with subscriptions in urban and rural areas of 3.05 million and 1.23 million respectively. The shares of urban and rural wireless (UBR FWA) subscribers in total wireless (UBR FWA) subscribers were 71.23 percent and 28.77 percent respectively, at the end of March 2026,” the TRAI report released on April 22, 2026, said.

Gain and Loss of Wireless Subscribers

Bharti Airtel added 5,094,968 wireless (mobile) subscribers, and Reliance Jio added 3,227,542 subscribers during the month. Meanwhile, Vodafone Idea added 102,899 wireless (mobile) subscribers. BSNL added 17,095 subscribers, while MTNL lost 9065 subscribers during March 2026.

All Licensed Service Areas (LSAs) showed growth in wireless (mobile) subscribers during March 2026.

Wireless Market Share of Operators

As of the end of March, 2026, private access service providers held 92.64 percent of the wireless (mobile) market, while BSNL and MTNL accounted for 7.36 percent.

This translates to Reliance Jio holding a 39.21 percent market share with 496.34 million wireless subscribers; Bharti Airtel with a 37.74 percent market share and 477.74 million wireless subscribers; Vodafone Idea with a 15.68 percent market share and 198.48 million wireless subscribers; BSNL with a 7.34 percent market share and 92.94 million wireless subscribers; and MTNL with a 0.02 percent market share and 214,967 wireless subscribers.

Wireless (Fixed wireless and Mobile) Access Broadband Subscribers

As of the end of March, 2026, Reliance Jio reported 509.21 million wireless broadband subscribers—the highest number—followed by Bharti Airtel with 358.13 million, Vodafone Idea with 128.91 million, and BSNL with 22.86 million subscribers.

Wireline Telephone Subscriber Base

Wireline subscribers increased from 47.99 million at the end of February 2026 to 48.25 million at the end of March 2026. The net increase in the wireline subscriber base was 0.25 million with a monthly growth rate of 0.53 percent.

In the wireline segment:

• Reliance Jio held a 31.58 percent market share with 15,237,438 subscribers, adding 188,698 subscribers during the month.
• Bharti Airtel accounted for a 23.67 percent share with around 11,419,588 subscribers, adding 23,370 subscribers during the month.
• Vodafone Idea held a market share of around 1.77 percent with about 853,441 subscribers, adding 11,954 subscribers during the month.
• Meanwhile, BSNL held a 15.46 percent market share with around 7.46 million (7,461,302) subscribers, adding 47,881 subscribers during the month.

M2M Cellular Connections

The number of M2M (Machine-to-Machine) cellular mobile connections increased from 118.47 million at the end of February 2026 to 123.88 million at the end of March 2026.

Bharti Airtel led with 76.99 million M2M connections (62.15 percent market share), followed by Reliance Jio with 23.23 million (18.76 percent), Vodafone Idea with 19.58 million (15.81 percent), and BSNL with 4.06 million (3.28 percent).

Active Wireless Subscribers

Out of the total 1,265.73 million wireless (mobile) subscribers, 1,185.60 million were active on the date of peak VLR in March 2026. The proportion of active wireless (mobile) subscribers was approximately 93.67 percent of the total wireless (mobile) subscriber base.

Bharti Airtel reported a peak VLR of 99.24 percent during the month, BSNL 56.36 percent, Vodafone Idea 85.30 percent, MTNL 141.50 percent, and Reliance Jio 98.62 percent.

Also in TRAI Subscriber Series:

Feb 2026: Vodafone Idea Gains 21,927 Wireless Subscribers, TRAI February 2026 Data

Jan 2026: Vodafone Idea Starts 2026 with Subscriber Loss: TRAI January 2026 Data

Dec 2025: Airtel Crosses 463 Million Wireless Subscribers; Gap With Jio Shrinks: TRAI December 2025 Data

Nov 2025: Airtel, BSNL, and Jio Gain Wireless Users in November 2025; Vodafone Idea Loses Over 1 Million Subscribers

Leverage Jio’s digital reach and Allianz’s insurance expertise

The proposed joint venture aims to leverage JFSL’s extensive digital ecosystem and deep understanding of the Indian market alongside Allianz’s global expertise in insurance products and services. Both partners said the collaboration seeks to deliver innovative, affordable and accessible protection solutions tailored to the specific needs of individuals and businesses in India. The companies are also working towards a separate binding agreement for the life insurance business in the country.

India’s strong economic progress and favourable demographics

The announcement comes against the backdrop of India’s expanding economy, favourable demographics and increasing need for financial protection. “India’s strong economic progress and favourable demographics underscore the growing need for long-term financial security and inclusive protection solutions. With a young population and a rising middle class, expanding insurance coverage is essential to strengthening the country’s long-term resilience by protecting its citizens and their assets. To meet these needs, the joint venture will aim to create a fundamentally differentiated way of designing, distributing, and delivering insurance solutions at scale in India,” the joint statement said.

JFSL said that enabling access to world-class insurance is central to its mission of empowering every Indian with simple, secure, seamless, and smart financial solutions – delivered digitally, at scale, and built around the needs of people at every income level.

Insurance for All by 2047 Vision

Mukesh D. Ambani said: “Our Founder, Shri Dhirubhai Ambani, built Reliance on one abiding belief – that the power of the best must be made available to every Indian, not just the privileged few. Jio Financial Services is proud to carry that belief into financial services.

Insurance is not just a product, but it is the foundation upon which families build their futures with confidence and are able to pursue their ambitions without fear. ‘Insurance for All by 2047‘ is a national mission and every institution that has been entrusted with the scale and trust of the Indian people has a duty to fulfil it. Jio Financial Services is committed to doing exactly that.

I am proud to partner with Allianz, one of the world’s most respected insurance groups, across the insurance value chain as our exclusive insurance partner. I believe that the combination of Jio‘s unmatched digital consumer reach and Allianz’s deep global insurance expertise is uniquely powerful.

Together, we will deliver world-class insurance solutions to every corner of India — simple to understand, easily accessible through our wide-spread channels, affordable, and powered by technology that works for every Indian. This is our commitment to every Indian, and our contribution to the Viksit Bharat vision.”

Build a completely new insurance model for India

Oliver Bate, Chief Executive Officer, Allianz SE, said: “Allianz Group is the most valuable and trusted insurance brand worldwide, a distinction earned over 136 years of supporting the protection needs and growth ambitions of our customers, who come to us from all walks of life. As part of our purpose, we keep promises that transcend borders and span generations.

By combining our expertise, high-quality products, and exceptional service with the unrivalled reach and capabilities of Jio Financial Services, our exclusive partner across the insurance value chain in India, we will create a more resilient and financially secure future for India, and will help to make the ‘Insurance for All by 2047’ vision a reality.

Our two companies share a profound conviction in the importance of inclusive economic growth and the powerful role that insurance plays in creating shared, sustainable prosperity for more people. Together, we will make protection simpler, more accessible, and more relevant for individuals, families, entrepreneurs and businesses across the country, and we will build a completely new insurance model for India: one designed around customers and their needs.”

The official release highlighted that “Allianz has been deeply invested in India’s insurance market since 2000 and will continue to support the growing need for long-term financial security by expanding access to risk protection and enhancing financial preparedness. In doing so, Allianz helps reinforce confidence and economic security for individuals, businesses, and communities across India.”