
In a market flooded with short-term prepaid plans, BSNL has introduced a thoughtfully crafted long-validity recharge option that is both affordable and practical. The Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) ₹1198 plan is gaining attention for offering a full year of service validity, ensuring that users can keep their SIM card active without the need for frequent top-ups. Ideal for light users, this plan includes voice calling, internet data, and SMS services, all under a single recharge.
Why BSNL’s ₹1198 Plan Is Generating Buzz?
With the telecom sector becoming more competitive and users seeking value for money, BSNL’s ₹1198 prepaid plan stands out. It caters particularly well to individuals who prefer long-lasting plans with minimum recharge hassle. Many users, including senior citizens and those using secondary SIMs, find the yearly plan to be a convenient solution to remain connected without spending much.
This plan is tailored for customers who:
- Use their phone number primarily for incoming calls.
- Want to maintain a secondary or backup SIM.
- Are senior citizens or low-usage users?
- Prefer to avoid monthly recharges.
BSNL’s offering is especially useful in regions where it has strong network coverage, making it a practical choice for rural and semi-urban residents.
Breakdown of BSNL’s ₹1198 Plan
Let’s take a detailed look at what BSNL is offering with its ₹1198 recharge pack:
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Plan Cost | ₹1198 (one-time payment) |
Validity | 365 days |
Voice Calls | 300 minutes (Local + STD) |
SMS | 30 free messages |
Internet Data | 3GB total |
SIM Activation | Free for the entire validity period |
Incoming Calls | Free for entire validity period |
After the included voice minutes, SMS, or data are exhausted, users will be charged according to BSNL’s standard base tariffs.
How the ₹1198 Plan Compares with Competitors?
While other telecom operators like Jio, Airtel, and Vi offer long-validity plans as well, BSNL’s ₹1198 plan stands out in terms of affordability. Let’s compare:
Operator | Plan Cost | Validity | Voice Calls | SMS | Data | Target User |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
BSNL | ₹1198 | 365 days | 300 mins | 30 SMS | 3GB total | Light users/seniors |
Jio | ₹1559 | 336 days | Unlimited | 100/day | 24GB total | Moderate users |
Airtel | ₹1799 | 365 days | Unlimited | 100/day | 24GB total | Moderate users |
Vi | ₹1799 | 365 days | Unlimited | 100/day | 24GB total | Moderate users |
From the table above, it’s evident that while BSNL does not offer unlimited calling or daily data benefits, it caters to users who simply need to keep their number active at the lowest possible price. This is especially beneficial for users who do not require heavy data or outgoing calling capabilities.
Who Should Choose the ₹1198 BSNL Plan?
This plan is not for everyone. It specifically benefits users with limited mobile needs. The ideal audience includes:
- Senior citizens: Many older adults need a phone only for receiving calls and occasional messages.
- Students or travelers: Those who use multiple SIMs and need a secondary option.
- Emergency users: People who want a spare number for safety or emergencies.
- Rural users: BSNL often provides stronger coverage than private players.
- BSNL loyalists: Customers who trust and regularly use BSNL services.
If your mobile usage is minimal or if you simply want to keep a number alive without recharging every month, this plan fits the bill perfectly.
How to Recharge the ₹1198 BSNL Plan?
BSNL offers a variety of convenient options to recharge this plan:
- BSNL Self-Care Portal or App: Recharge directly from the official platform.
- Third-Party Apps: Use platforms like Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe, or Freecharge.
- Offline Recharge: Visit any BSNL retail outlet or store.
- Customer Service Centres: Assistance is available at BSNL offices.
Before proceeding with the recharge, ensure that your SIM is active. Once the recharge is done, your SIM will remain valid for another 365 days.
Key Highlights of the ₹1198 BSNL Plan
Here’s a quick look at why this plan is worth considering:
- One-time payment, year-long validity
- No need for frequent top-ups
- Basic voice, SMS, and data included
- Excellent option for secondary or backup SIM
- Ideal for senior citizens and light mobile users
- Easily accessible via online and offline methods
Should You Go for the ₹1198 BSNL Plan?
If you’re looking for a basic, budget-friendly plan that will keep your SIM card active without monthly recharges, BSNL’s ₹1198 prepaid plan is a solid choice. While it doesn’t offer high-speed data or unlimited calling, it covers the essentials and ensures your number remains valid for an entire year.
This plan is especially attractive for users who rely more on incoming calls and want to avoid the risk of SIM deactivation. For those needing just the basics, BSNL has delivered a practical and cost-effective solution.
Always verify the most current details on BSNL’s official website or customer service, as plan features may vary by region or be subject to updates.

Mangesh Garg is a passionate writer known for captivating stories that blend imagination and reality. Inspired by travel, history, and everyday moments, He crafts narratives that resonate deeply with readers