In the process of reformation across various sectors, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has also taken initiatives to make processes convenient for customers. The Union Cabinet has approved major changes in the telecom sector, according to new guidelines, the process of taking a new SIM card and converting the connection from pre-paid to postpaid or vice versa will become easier. Now the customers can do all processes online.

In the recent meeting, the Union government did major announcements for the telecom sector which comprises a big relief for customers who want to switch from prepaid to post-paid plans and for people who want to get a new connection.

Within the new guidelines, people will not have to do KYC repeatedly and do not have to be physically present for KYC for buying a new SIM or MNP. All these processes have been digitized providing convenience to the customers. These steps have been taken to meet the challenges that arose during the covid 19 pandemics.

This customer-centric process is entirely safe, paperless, and app-based.

Think about those days when these processes had been so complex-first you have to go to a retail shop, buy a SIM card, provide all relevant documents and physically be present for KYC. It would take a lot of time to get things done but with the new online facility, the process will no longer be so complicated.

How to get a new SIM card

One, who wants to get a new SIN card, can get a KYC done online, apply for a new SIM card with all the documents required. The documents will be verified by UIDAI and Digi Locker. After the verification, the new SIM card will be delivered to one’s residence. With this process, one can apply for a new SIM from the comfort of his home. It is to be noted that the application process will be addressed for only one mobile connection per day. The most beneficial aspect is that the customer will have to pay only Rs 1 for e-KYC.

Conversion from pre-paid to post-paid

People, who want to convert their SIM from prepaid to postpaid, do not require to do KYC again.

The Union Minister of Communications, Ashwini Vaishnav said, ‘All KYC will be digitized and no form-paperwork is required now. No more repeat KYC to go from prepaid to postpaid or vice versa. An auction calendar will be created and 1953 Customs notification will be amended’. Processes in various sectors are gradually becoming technology-driven which have been created keeping the consumers’ convenience in mind.

The steps taken by the Telecommunications Department are more user-friendly but there might be some challenges. Unquestionably, people in India have become familiar with new technology but there still is a large population who do not have awareness and accessibility to the technology.

India has a long way to go to come in line with the digital world. Having said that, the new guideline in favor of mobile phone users will certainly be helpful for the customers.