KKN Gurugram Desk | Reliance Jio has introduced changes to two of its popular add-on data recharge plans, affecting their validity and benefits. If you’re a Jio user planning to recharge your number, it’s important to understand these changes before proceeding. While the pricing of these plans remains unchanged, the validity period has been significantly altered.

Jio’s ₹69 and ₹139 Recharge Plans – What Has Changed?

Jio provides add-on data packs for users who require extra data beyond their primary plan. Two of the most used add-on packs are ₹69 and ₹139, which earlier had the same validity as the base plan. However, Jio has now changed their validity structure, making a significant shift in how these data packs work.

Key Changes in Jio’s Add-On Data Packs

• Earlier: The validity of ₹69 and ₹139 add-on packs was the same as the base plan. If your base plan was valid for 28 days, the add-on pack would also last 28 days.
• Now: The validity of these add-on packs has been reduced to just 7 days, regardless of your base plan’s remaining validity.

This means that even if your base plan is valid for 28 days, your extra data will now expire within 7 days of activation.

Impact of Jio’s Changes on Users

These revisions will affect users who frequently use add-on data packs to extend their data usage. Earlier, a user could continue using the extra data throughout the entire validity period of their base plan. Now, they must consume the additional data within 7 days or risk losing the unused data.

For example:

• If a Jio user has a 28-day base plan and activates a ₹69 or ₹139 data pack on day 10, earlier, they would have 18 days to use the extra data.
• With the new rules, they will have only 7 days to consume the data, after which it will expire, even if their base plan is still active.

Breakdown of Jio’s Revised Add-On Data Plans

Why Did Jio Change the Validity of These Plans?

Jio has not officially disclosed the reason behind reducing the validity of these add-on data packs, but there are a few possible explanations:

1. Encouraging Frequent Recharges: By limiting the validity to 7 days, Jio may push users to recharge more frequently, increasing their revenue.
2. Data Consumption Management: Shorter validity periods ensure users consume the additional data quickly, avoiding long-term data accumulation.
3. Aligning with Competitors: Other telecom providers like Airtel and Vi (Vodafone Idea) also offer shorter validity add-on packs, and Jio could be making adjustments to stay competitive.

What Users Should Keep in Mind Before Recharging?

If you frequently recharge with Jio’s add-on data packs, here are some things to consider:

1. Use Data Within 7 Days: Any unused data from the ₹69 or ₹139 pack will expire after 7 days, so plan your data usage accordingly.
2. Base Plan Validity Doesn’t Matter: Even if your base plan has 20+ days remaining, the add-on data won’t last beyond 7 days.
3. No Other Benefits Included: These plans only provide data; they do not include free calls, SMS, or OTT subscriptions.
4. Check Other Data Plans: If you need longer validity, consider upgrading to higher daily data plans rather than relying on add-ons.

Comparison: Jio vs Other Telecom Operators

How does Jio’s revised add-on data plan compare to other telecom providers like Airtel and Vi?

While Jio’s add-on data packs still offer more data, their reduced validity makes them less useful for users who prefer long-term extra data.

How to Make the Most of Your Jio Add-On Data Plan?

If you’re a Jio user who needs extra data frequently, here are some tips to optimize your recharges:

1. Recharge Only When Needed – Since the add-on data expires in 7 days, recharge only when you actually require additional data.
2. Monitor Your Data Usage – Track your data consumption using the MyJio App to ensure you don’t waste any data before it expires.
3. Consider Upgrading Your Base Plan – If you regularly require extra data, a higher daily data plan may be a better option than repeatedly buying add-ons.
4. Use Wi-Fi When Possible – Save your mobile data by connecting to Wi-Fi for heavy downloads or streaming.

Alternatives for Jio Users Seeking More Data

If the new 7-day validity limit on add-ons doesn’t work for you, consider these alternative Jio plans that offer more data with a longer validity:

• Jio ₹239 Plan: 1.5GB/day for 28 days.
• Jio ₹399 Plan: 3GB/day for 28 days.
• Jio ₹666 Plan: 2GB/day for 84 days.
• Jio ₹999 Plan: 3GB/day for 84 days.

These plans may cost more upfront, but they provide a longer validity and more data per day, reducing the need for frequent add-on recharges.

Is This Change Beneficial or a Disadvantage for Users?

For some users, the shortened validity of Jio’s ₹69 and ₹139 add-on packs may feel like a setback, especially if they preferred using the data over a longer period. However, for those who consume data quickly, the impact may be minimal.

Pros of the Change:

✔ Encourages better data management for users who consume large amounts of data in a short period.
✔ May offer more flexible data plans in the future, as Jio frequently updates its offerings.

Cons of the Change:

❌ Users lose unused data after 7 days, which wasn’t the case earlier.
❌ Frequent recharges may increase costs for users who need extra data over a longer period.

Jio’s decision to reduce the validity to 7 days means users need to consume their extra data quickly or risk losing it. If you need temporary high-speed data for short-term usage, these plans are still useful. However, if you prefer long-term add-on data, exploring higher daily data plans might be a better option.

For regular Jio users, it’s essential to assess data needs and choose recharges wisely to avoid unnecessary expenses and data loss. Always check the latest Jio plans and validity updates before making a recharge decision.