India's telecom watchdog TRAI allowed mobile operators to offer Combo Recharge Vouchers for prepaid subscribers that will provide dual benefit to consumers.
Combo Vouchers (Talk Time + Special Benefits for Voice/SMS/Data) would provide more flexibility to the mobile service providers to offer innovative bundling of the products based on market segmentation. Further, use of Combo Vouchers afford the subscriber convenience of purchasing additional monetary value as well as well as getting benefit of special tariffs through a single transaction
As of now only three categories of vouchers, namely Plan Vouchers, Top-ups and STVs were permitted by TRAI as per new guidelines issued in January 2012 under TELECOM CONSUMERS PROTECTION REGULATIONS 2012.
There have been demands from several service providers and Cellular Operators Association of India to allow a fourth category of vouchers (Combo Vouchers). The Combo Vouchers would be an additional category of vouchers under the TCPR that would provide monetary value and tariff concessions through a single voucher.
TRAI permits the Combo Vouchers as a fourth category of vouchers with certain safeguards to ensure that Top Up Vouchers are clearly distinguishable to subscribers. Top-Up Vouchers will be exclusively available in denomination of Rs.10 and multiples thereof. The Combo Vouchers will be available only in denomination other than Rs.10 and multiples thereof.
The Combo Vouchers which are in physical form will bear a Blue colour band whereas the Top-Up Vouchers will bear a green colour band. The Combo Vouchers will also clearly mention the terms and conditions of offer so that consumers can make an informed choice. In addition, service providers will also mention the availability of standalone top up vouchers whenever combo vouchers are publicised.
