Mobile Recharge Prices Set to Rise by 16–20% in 2026: Airtel Likely to Gain Most
Indian telecom users may have to spend more on mobile recharges next year as major operators are expected to increase prepaid and postpaid plan prices by 16 to 20 percent in 2026. According to a new report by Morgan Stanley, the hike in tariffs for 4G and 5G plans will boost operators’ revenues and average revenue per user (ARPU), with Airtel likely emerging as the biggest beneficiary.
Why Prices Are Increasing
The telecom industry has witnessed multiple price hikes over the past few years:
2019: Prices rose by 15–50%
2021: 20–25% increase
2024: 10–20% increase
The key reasons behind the upcoming hike include growing investment in 5G infrastructure, removal of low-cost plans, and inclusion of additional OTT benefits in higher-priced packages. This strategy is expected t...









