TRAI Empowers Users to Check Mobile Network Coverage Before Choosing a Provider

India’s leading telecom providers—Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea (Vi)—may offer competitive recharge plans, but customers often face inconsistent network performance depending on their location. A major step forward has now been taken by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), giving users more control over their mobile network choices.

If you’ve been dealing with frequent call drops, weak signals, or poor internet speeds, there’s good news. Thanks to TRAI’s latest guidelines, users will soon be able to check real-time network coverage and signal strength in their area with just a few clicks.

TRAI’s New Directive: What You Should Know

Effective Date: October 1, 2024

Under TRAI’s revised Quality of Service (QoS) regulations, telecom companies are now required to publicly display their mobile network coverage information.

“This directive, effective from October 1, 2024, under the revised Quality of Service (QoS) rules, allows Jio, Airtel, and Vi to offer this valuable service.”

The goal of this move is simple: empower Indian users to make informed decisions when selecting a mobile service provider.

How to Check Network Strength in Your Area?

Before switching networks or buying a new SIM, it’s now possible to compare providers based on actual signal availability in your city or locality. Here's how to access the information:

Airtel Users

• Navigate to the ‘Check Coverage’ section in the Airtel Thanks App or visit
  👉 airtel.in/wirelesscoverage

Jio Users

• Jio’s 46 crore users can use the ‘Coverage Map’ option in the MyJio app or via
  👉 jio.com/selfcare/coverage-map

Vi (Vodafone Idea) Users

• Use the ‘Network Coverage’ section on Vi’s site
  👉 myvi.in/vicoverag

Note for BSNL Users

As of now, BSNL users do not have access to this real-time coverage feature. TRAI’s directive currently applies only to private telecom operators.

Government Considers SIM Card Overhaul Amid Security Concerns

In a separate development, the government is reportedly examining a nationwide plan to replace existing SIM cards. This comes in response to a report by India’s top cybersecurity agency, which discovered that certain SIM components were sourced from Chinese manufacturers, raising national security concerns.

About Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is an independent regulatory body established by the Government of India under Section 3 of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997. It was founded on February 20, 1997, with its headquarters in New Delhi.  

History and Establishment of TRAI:

The establishment of TRAI was a crucial step following the liberalization of the Indian telecommunications sector in the 1990s and the entry of private players. Before its formation, the central government oversaw the regulation of telecom services and tariffs. The need for an independent regulator arose to ensure fair competition, protect consumer interests, and promote the orderly growth of the telecom industry.  

The TRAI Act was later amended in 2000, leading to the creation of the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT). TDSAT took over the adjudicatory and dispute resolution functions from TRAI, allowing TRAI to focus on its regulatory role.  

TRAI Mission and Objectives:

TRAI's core mission is to create and nurture conditions for the growth of telecommunications (including broadcasting and cable services) in India, enabling the country to play a leading role in the emerging global information society. Its key objectives include:  

• Promoting fair competition and efficiency in telecommunications.  

• Establishing a level playing field for all stakeholders.  

• Encouraging technological advancements and efficient spectrum management.  

• Protecting consumer interests by ensuring fair pricing and quality of service.  

TRAI Structure and Composition:

TRAI consists of a Chairperson and not more than two full-time members and not more than two part-time members, all appointed by the Central Government. The members should possess special knowledge or professional experience in telecommunications, industry, finance, accountancy, law, management, and consumer affairs. The current Chairman of TRAI is Anil Kumar Lahoti, who assumed office in 2024.  

Key Functions of TRAI:

TRAI performs a wide range of functions to regulate the telecom sector, including:

• Recommending:

  • The need and timing for the introduction of new service providers.  

  • The terms and conditions of licenses for service providers.  

  • The revocation of licenses for non-compliance.  

  • Measures to facilitate competition and promote efficiency.  

  • Technological improvements in services.

• Discharging Responsibilities:

  • Ensuring compliance with license terms and conditions.

  • Ensuring technical compatibility and effective interconnection between service providers.  

  • Laying down standards for the quality of service.  

  • Conducting periodic surveys to assess the quality of service.

  • Specifying the rates for telecommunication services within and outside India.  

  • Maintaining a register of interconnect agreements.

• Regulatory Functions:

  • Fixing tariffs for telecom services.  

  • Regulating the terms and conditions of interconnection between service providers.  

  • Ensuring fair revenue-sharing arrangements between service providers.

  • Levying fees and other charges as per regulations.  

  • Issuing directions to service providers as deemed necessary for proper functioning.  

• Spectrum Management: Advising the government on spectrum allocation, pricing, and utilization.  

• Consumer Protection: Addressing consumer complaints, creating awareness of consumer rights, and ensuring fair billing and service practices.  

Recent Initiatives:

TRAI has been actively involved in various initiatives, including:

• Promoting Broadband Penetration: Initiatives like the WANI (Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) architecture to establish Public Data Offices (PDOs) for widespread Wi-Fi access.  

• Enhancing Transparency: Launching mobile apps like MyCall, MySpeed, and DND 2.0 to empower users with information about telecom services and manage unwanted communications.  

• Channel Selector Portal: An app to help consumers manage their Direct-to-Home (DTH) channel subscriptions.  

• Addressing Mobile Number Portability (MNP): Facilitating the process for consumers to switch service providers while retaining their numbers.

• Facilitating 5G Rollout: Working towards the faster adoption of 5G technology in India.

• Combating Fraudulent Communications: The Chakshu facility under the Sanchar Saathi portal allows users to report suspected fraudulent calls and messages.  

Limitations:

It's important to note that TRAI's recommendations are not always binding on the Central Government. If the government disagrees with a recommendation, it can refer it back to TRAI for reconsideration.  

In conclusion, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India plays a vital role in regulating and developing the telecommunications sector in India, balancing the interests of service providers and consumers while promoting innovation and growth.

Conclusion

TRAI’s move to introduce transparent network quality checks marks a major win for telecom consumers in India. With network strength being one of the most critical factors for uninterrupted connectivity, this new feature will help users avoid guesswork and pick a network that actually works in their area. Combined with potential SIM reforms, the telecom landscape in India is poised for improved user experience and enhanced security.