Bharat Sanchar Nigam (BSNL) has announced its revision of its existing data STV 1099 to provide true unlimited 3G internet any without speed restriction or FUP. BSNL has also introduced new data STVs 549 and 156 offering more bundled usage compared to existing data packs. The new data tariff will come into effect from 25th August 2016 on PAN India basis.

BSNL has revised existing data STV 1099 which used to offer 9GB data for 60 days to make it true unlimited. However, the validity of the data pack was reduced to 30 days from existing 60 days. BSNL has also introduced new data STV 549 offering 10GB data for 30 days. While STV 156 is being introduced offering 2GB data for 10 days.

Recently, incumbent operators drop their data tariff significantly in wake of threats from son to be launched Jio 4G service. However, BSNL has taken the data tariff war to the next level by introducing truly unlimited data STV 1099. The newly launched data STVs also provide 3G data as low as Rs 55/GB which is much lower compared to Rs 100/GB offer by incumbent operators on its data pack priced above Rs 1000.

Rationalization of Existing Data STV 1099:

EXISTING REVISED Data STV/Data Combo Voucher in Rs.(Inclusive of service Tax) Total bundled free Usage Validity of freebies (in calendar days) Total bundled free Usage Validity of freebies (in calendar days) Data Charges after freebies Data Charges in Rs./MB(For APN ‘bsnlstream) 1099 9 GB 60 Unlimited without speed restriction 30 3p/10KB 0.25

New Data STVs:

S. No. Denomination (In Rs.- inclusive of Service Tax) Free bundled Data Validity in calendar date 1 Rs. 549 10 GB 30 days 2 Rs. 156 2 GB 10 days

If you remember, this is not the first time BSNL introduced a truly unlimited 3G data pack. Back in 2010, BSNL launched true unlimited 3G data pack for Rs 700, however it was withdrawn within a year. BSNL also offer true unlimited data packs for EVDO subscribers. As BSNL lacks 4G service, it is counting on its 3G network to counter threats from Jio and other 4G operator by offering lowest data tariff in the country.

Note: Do cross check with BSNL before opting any plans.

Do you think Jio could match up with similar unlimited offer?