Mobile users are likely to face a major shock at the start of the New Year, as telecom companies prepare to hike recharge prices sharply. According to industry sources, mobile tariffs may increase by 16 to 20 percent from January 2026, adding to the financial burden on consumers.
Telecom operators have reportedly finalized plans to announce the revised tariffs as soon as the New Year begins. As a result, users hoping to welcome 2026 on a happy note may find this development disappointing. The proposed hike could increase the cost of a single recharge by up to ₹100 in some popular plans.
Airtel and Jio Plans Likely to Get Costlier
Currently, Airtel offers a basic 5G plan with 28 days validity at ₹319. From January, this plan is expected to cost ₹419, directly adding ₹100 to users’ expenses. Similarly, Reliance Jio’s basic recharge, now priced at ₹299, may rise to around ₹359. Another Jio 5G plan with 28 days validity, currently priced at ₹349, could go up to ₹429.
Data Recharge Prices Also to Increase
Data plans are also expected to see a significant hike. Vodafone Idea’s plan offering 28 days validity with 1GB data per day, currently priced at ₹340, may soon cost ₹419. In addition, its 56-day plan with 2GB daily data could increase from ₹579 to ₹699.
Industry Outlook Signals More Hikes
Market research firm Morgan Stanley has projected that telecom companies may raise tariffs by up to 20 percent in 2026. The report states that operators aim to boost Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), which is driving the decision to increase prices across prepaid, postpaid, and data plans.
Industry experts also note that telecom companies have raised tariffs almost every year, and 2026 is expected to follow the same trend. With official announcements likely soon, mobile users may need to prepare for higher monthly expenses in the coming days.
