Aircel launches ‘One Nation, One Rate’ - Local Prepaid Tariff while Roaming

Aircel launches ‘One Nation, One Rate’ – Local Prepaid Tariff while Roaming

Aircel recently launched a unique ‘One Nation, One Rate’ voucher for prepaid customers to offer local tariff for voice calls, SMS and Internet – even while in roaming across India on Aircel network.

I like the concept of getting rid of national roaming and it surely makes more sense when we’re using the same carrier company’s network for roaming as when not. According to their recent update – the company declares them as pioneers of this same concept, however – quick look at IDEA Cellular website; you can see similar plan is already on offer.

BUT – comparing the details of the plan gives us clear indication on the fact that, Aircel is offering the lowest roaming tariffs under ‘One Nation, One Rate’ plan.

Aircel Press Release excerpt

“In India, which is the world’s most dynamic and challenging telecom market, Aircel has successfully cemented its place by launching innovative and best value for money products and services. Aircel has been the pioneer of data revolution in the country. Carrying this legacy of innovation forward, we have launched ‘One nation, one rate’, which will enable us to take a lead in the voice space as well. Our core values – ‘Simple, Creative and Trustworthy’ reflect in this product that will enable Aircel customers to enjoy one rate for voice, SMS and data services in their home circles and even while they are on roaming. We believe that the launch of this product will create a community of Aircel users and will mark the start of an important chapter in India’s telecom growth story.”

Comparison between Aircel and IDEA Cellular Plans

Here is a quick comparison between the two cellular networks offering National Roaming plan for prepaid subscribers.

	AIRCEL	IDEA
Voucher Cost	Rs. 39 in Delhi (Or Rs. 29 in Maharashtra)	Rs. 76 in Maharashtra
Validity	180 Days	90 Days
Incoming Calls	FREE	Same as Outgoing at 70p / Min
National SMS Charges while Roaming	Re. 1	Rs. 1.5
Outgoing Calls	1p / Sec	70p / Min
DATA (GPRS/3G)	Same as Local Plan	10p / 10kb
* There may be more differences between the plans. Please check their websites for more information

No fun yet for post-paid customers in India?

I am using post-paid connection from day one since last 10 years and nothing great is offered for National roaming schemes yet. The lucrative roaming features are available only on the highest rental plans. I wish something like this for all post-paid users because, post-paid subscribers are more likely to use Internet more while in roaming. Not just for Facebook updates but also for work.

Real Evolution, when?

I surely like the fact that, competition in cellular market of India is making companies create exciting plans to offer local tariff while roaming, but at the same time – it’s really disappointing to see prepaid subscribers switching their phones off just to avoid prepaid balance deductions just before entering the roaming zone. It’s killing the concept of ‘being mobile’ when it’s needed the most.

The true evolution is only when – there is no need to activate or using different higher tariff when in ‘National Roaming’

If you’re a frequent traveler with prepaid mobile subscription then do share your views on Aircel’s new national roaming tariffs and what would you like your carrier offer under the ‘National Roaming’ package?

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