The following are our comments submitted to the TRAI, on the consultation paper regarding 'Certain Issues relating to Telecom Tariffs', which covered tariffs, premium calls and SMS, advertising of telecom plans (hence Fair Usage Policy). We've also submitted comments regarding service provisioning without permission, and false billing, which is in violation of a TRAI notification, but still continues as a practice. These are our independent views, without favor or prejudice, though to be honest, these were rather hurriedly put together in less than an hour. Here goes: Question: Do you think mandating "One Standard Plan for All Service Providers" particularly for the prepaid subscribers as suggested by some consumer organizations would be relevant in the present scenario of Indian telecom market? MediaNama: We disagree: One standard plan for all service providers will inhibit price competition, and thus consumers may not be able to benefit from reduction in pricing. Also, the 'one size fits all' philosophy is anti-consumer, since consumers should be free to choose tariffs that are ideal, according to their usage pattern. Question: Do you think the existence of large number of tariff plans and offers in the market are beneficial for the subscribers? MediaNama: Yes, since it allows consumers more choice. At the same time, it is important for telecom operators to detail all specifications related to pricing plans. At times, sales agents operating on a commission from telecom operators share incomplete information with consumers, in order to lure them into changing plans. Question: In your opinion is…
