New Delhi, November 8 (Read): Reliance Jio has launched two new Intra-Circle Roaming (ICR) recharge plans in collaboration with state-run telecom operator BSNL for customers in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The move aims to improve network accessibility in rural and remote areas where Jio’s own coverage remains limited.
According to Jio, these special ICR plans allow users to access BSNL’s network for voice, data, and SMS services within the same telecom circle. “The BSNL ICR service is available on select Jio prepaid recharges, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity in low-coverage zones,” the company said in its statement.
Jio has rolled out two dedicated ICR packs priced at ₹196 and ₹396both offering a validity of 28 days.
The ₹196 plan includes 2GB data, 1,000 minutes of voice callsand 1,000 SMS.
The ₹396 plan provides 10GB dataalong with the same voice and SMS benefits.
These plans are exclusively for use on BSNL’s ICR network and cannot be used on Jio’s own network or any other operator such as Airtel or Vi. Only users with an active ICR pack will be able to connect to BSNL’s infrastructure under this arrangement.
As per the company’s terms, the plans will activate only when the user’s device connects to the BSNL network. Until then, they will remain in a queued status. Once activated through the first use of voice, SMS, or data, the plan will stay valid for the remaining period of its 28-day cycle.
These ICR plans are applicable only in the Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh circlesensuring users in network-challenged regions continue to receive reliable service through BSNL’s extensive coverage.
The partnership underscores Jio’s strategy to expand connectivity in semi-urban and rural India by leveraging BSNL’s network presence. This collaboration is expected to enhance user experience in areas with limited private telecom infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Bharti Airtel announced the deployment of new government-funded 4G towers under the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN)earlier known as the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF). The initiative, in partnership with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT)extends across remote regions of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Biharfurther improving digital inclusion in India’s rural landscape.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Readhis insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
