This article provides an overview of Jio and BSNL prepaid plan categories, compares their plans based on validity, and examines customer support and user experience for both providers.

Jio vs BSNL: key differences in prepaid plans

  • Jio and BSNL are among India’s top telecom operators, offering a wide range of services including prepaid, postpaid, broadband, and digital entertainment. Both prioritise customer satisfaction and provide convenient online options for their services.

    They make it simple to recharge your mobile or pay your bills. While there are many online platforms for this, it is best to stick to trusted BBPS platforms. With Bajaj Pay on Bajaj Finserv, you can quickly recharge or pay your postpaid bills. Plus, every transaction is encrypted to keep your details safe.

    Jio, owned by Reliance Industries, has redefined the Indian telecommunications sector since its inception in 2016. Known for its affordable plans, high-speed data, and widespread 4G connectivity, Jio quickly gained market dominance. Its suite of services includes voice calls, broadband, and digital apps like JioTV, JioCinema, and JioSaavn, catering to diverse entertainment and connectivity needs. Jio’s aggressive pricing and extensive network coverage have made it a preferred choice for urban and semi-urban users.

    Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), established in 2000, is one of India’s oldest telecom service providers. With a focus on rural and semi-urban areas, BSNL offers a range of services including mobile networks, broadband, and landline connections. Despite challenges in competing with private operators, BSNL continues to attract loyal customers due to its affordable pricing, strong rural network, and additional perks like free caller tunes. BSNL’s emphasis on serving remote regions has cemented its importance in India's connectivity landscape.

    Overview of Jio and BSNL prepaid plan categories

    Jio and BSNL provide diverse prepaid plans designed to meet varying user needs. Jio offers high-speed data plans bundled with free access to its suite of apps, unlimited voice calls, and SMS. Plans cater to different data requirements, ranging from 1.5GB/day to 3GB/day.

    BSNL focuses on affordability, offering budget-friendly plans with extensive rural coverage. Its prepaid plans include features like unlimited voice calls, SMS, and data benefits ranging from 2GB/day to unlimited usage. Additionally, BSNL provides unique perks such as free caller tunes and Lokdhun content services. These categories ensure that both operators appeal to a wide audience with distinct priorities.

    Comparison of Jio vs BSNL prepaid plans by validity

    28 Days Validity plans

    FeatureJioBSNL
    Price349, 399, 449187, 398
    Data2GB/day to 3GB/day2GB/day to unlimited
    Voice CallsUnlimitedUnlimited
    SMS100 SMS/ day100 SMS/day (398 plan)
    Additional benefitsJio AppsFree PRBT (147 plan)


    Note: Jio provides plans ranging from Rs. 349-449 for 28 days validity, whereas BSNL offers plans ranging from Rs. 147-398 for 28-30 days.

    56 Days Validity plans

    FeatureJioBSNL
    Price629319, 347, 447
    Data2GB/day2GB/day to 100GB
    Voice CallsUnlimitedUnlimited
    SMS100 SMS/day100 SMS/day
    Additional benefitsJio AppsFree Lokdhun service (998 plan)


    Note: Jio provides a plan for Rs. 629 for 56 days validity, whereas BSNL offers plans ranging from Rs. 319-447 for 56-65 days.

    84 Days Validity plans

    FeatureJioBSNL
    Price719 to 1,799599, 499
    Data1.5GB/day to 3GB/day2GB/day to 5GB/day
    Voice CallsUnlimitedUnlimited
    SMSNot specified100 SMS/day (1499 plan)
    Additional benefitsJio AppsNot specified


    Note: Jio provides plans ranging from Rs. 719-1799 for 84 days validity, whereas BSNL offers plans ranging from Rs. 499-599 for 84-90 days.

    365 days validity plans

    FeatureJioBSNL
    Price3599, 3999797 to 2022
    Data2.5GB/day2GB/day to 3GB/day
    Voice CallsUnlimitedUnlimited
    SMSNot specified100 SMS/day (2022 plan)
    Additional benefitsJio AppsFree PRBT (797 plan)


    Note: Jio provides plans ranging from Rs. 3599-3999 for 365 days validity, whereas BSNL offers plans ranging from Rs. 797-2022 for 240-395 days.

    Customer support and user experience

    Both Jio and BSNL provide robust customer support channels to address user queries. Jio’s customer care operates via a toll-free number, live chat, and the MyJio app, offering a seamless experience. Users can easily raise service requests or check their plan details through these platforms.

    BSNL offers multiple support options including toll-free numbers, local office contacts, and its MyBSNL app. Its extensive physical presence in rural areas ensures accessibility for customers who prefer offline support. The user-friendly apps of both providers simplify plan management, enhancing overall satisfaction.

    Whether you need to recharge your Jio SIM or BSNL prepaid plan, Bajaj Pay makes it quick and easy.

    Steps to recharge your prepaid SIM via the Bajaj Finserv website

    Here are the steps to recharge your prepaid SIM via the Bajaj Finserv website:

    1. Visit the Bajaj Finserv website

    2. Navigate to the 'PAYMENTS' section

    3. Select 'MOBILE RECHARGE' and choose your operator

    4. Enter your BSNL number and choose your preferred recharge plan

    5. Complete your payment using UPI, debit/credit card, or other options

    You will receive a confirmation message after successful payment.

    Steps to recharge your prepaid SIM via the Bajaj Finserv App

    Here are the steps to recharge your prepaid SIM via the Bajaj Finserv App:

    1. Download the Bajaj Finserv App from the Google Play Store or App Store and install it on your device

    2. Open the app, log in, or register if you are a new user

    3. Go to 'BILLS AND RECHARGES' and select 'MOBILE PREPAID'

    4. Enter your number and choose your preferred recharge plan

    5. Select a payment method from the list of available payment options such as credit cards, debit cards, and net banking

    6. After choosing your preferred payment mode, enter the requested payment details

    7. Check the details that you entered and click on 'PAY NOW'

    You will receive a notification from Bajaj Finserv after successful payment.

    Fees and Charges

    A platform fee of up to Rs. 5 will be charged on each mobile recharge and bill payment (inclusive of applicable taxes). For more information on fees and charges, click here.

    Note: For failed transactions, the total amount including charges except taxes are reversed.

Disclaimer

1. Bajaj Finance Limited (“BFL”) is a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) and Prepaid Payment Instrument Issuer offering financial services viz., loans, deposits, Bajaj Pay Wallet, Bajaj Pay UPI, bill payments and third-party wealth management products. The details mentioned in the respective product/ service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency with respect to the information referring to BFL products and services on this page.

2. All other information, such as, the images, facts, statistics etc. (“information”) that are in addition to the details mentioned in the BFL’s product/ service document and which are being displayed on this page only depicts the summary of the information sourced from the public domain. The said information is neither owned by BFL nor it is to the exclusive knowledge of BFL. There may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the said information. Hence, users are advised to independently exercise diligence by verifying complete information, including by consulting experts, if any. Users shall be the sole owner of the decision taken, if any, about suitability of the same.

Bajaj Finserv App for All Your Financial Needs and Goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Explore and apply for co-branded credit cards online.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-approved limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.
Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best prepaid plan for heavy data usage: Jio or BSNL?
Jio’s high-speed plans with up to 3GB/day are ideal for heavy data users, offering excellent value.

Does Jio provide unlimited SMS in its prepaid plans?
Jio’s plans typically include SMS benefits, though details vary and are not always specified.

Are there any annual prepaid plans with BSNL offering unlimited data?
BSNL provides annual plans like Rs. 1999, which include substantial data benefits alongside other perks.

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