Updated: September 28, 2025

Did you know that Airtel’s newest Rs. 189 prepaid plan offers unlimited calling for just Rs. 9 per day? If you’re looking for an affordable short-term mobile solution, this budget-friendly pack could be exactly what you need.

The telecom industry has seen significant changes in 2025, with operators introducing more targeted plans for specific user segments. Airtel’s Rs. 189 pack, launched in July 2025, specifically targets light users and secondary SIM holders who need basic connectivity without breaking the bank.

This comprehensive guide reveals everything about Airtel’s Rs. 189 prepaid pack, including hidden benefits, comparison with competitors, and whether it’s worth your money in 2025.

What’s Inside Airtel Rs. 189 Prepaid Pack?

Complete Benefits Breakdown

Key Features at a Glance

• ✅ Unlimited voice calls across all networks (local and STD)
• ✅ 1GB total data for 21 days
• ✅ 300 SMS included
• ✅ No daily limits on calling
• ✅ 21-day validity period
• ✅ Post-quota data charged at 50 paise per MB

Who Should Choose This Plan?

Perfect For:

Light Data Users If you primarily use WiFi and need minimal mobile data, 1GB spread over 21 days (approximately 48MB per day) might be sufficient.

Secondary SIM Holders Ideal for keeping a secondary number active without high monthly costs.

Elderly Users Senior citizens who mainly make calls and send occasional messages will find this pack perfect.

Budget-Conscious Users Students or anyone looking for basic connectivity at the lowest possible cost.

Not Suitable For:

• Heavy internet users
• Video streaming enthusiasts
• Social media addicts
• Users requiring daily data quotas

Detailed Cost Analysis

Value Proposition

Daily breakdown:
- Cost per day: Rs. 9
- Data per day: ~48MB
- Unlimited calls: Priceless for heavy callers
- SMS per day: ~14 messages

Comparison with Popular Alternatives

How to Recharge with Rs. 189 Plan

Multiple Recharge Methods

1. Airtel Thanks App

• Download official Airtel Thanks app
• Login with registered mobile number
• Select “Prepaid Recharge”
• Choose Rs. 189 plan
• Complete payment

2. Airtel Website

• Visit airtel.in
• Navigate to prepaid section
• Enter mobile number
• Select Rs. 189 pack
• Pay using preferred method

3. Retail Outlets

• Visit nearest Airtel store
• Provide mobile number to retailer
• Request Rs. 189 recharge
• Pay cash and collect receipt

4. USSD Code

• Dial *121# from Airtel number
• Follow menu options
• Select recharge amount
• Confirm transaction

5. Third-Party Apps

• Paytm, PhonePe, Google Pay
• Amazon Pay, Mobikwik
• All major payment platforms support this plan

Regional Availability and Restrictions

Pan-India Availability

The Rs. 189 plan is available across all Airtel circles in India, including:

• Metropolitan cities
• Urban areas
• Rural regions
• North-East circles

Special Considerations

Roaming Benefits

• Unlimited voice calling while roaming within India
• Data usage allowed in roaming at standard rates
• SMS charges apply as per roaming rates

Network Coverage Works on Airtel 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks where available.

Hidden Benefits and Terms

Additional Perks

Free Airtel Services Access

• Airtel Thanks app benefits
• Basic customer support
• Account management features

Data Rollover Policy

• No data rollover to next recharge
• Unused data expires with validity
• No extension options available

Important Terms and Conditions

Validity Calculation

• Starts immediately upon recharge
• Expires at midnight on 21st day
• No partial day calculations

Fair Usage Policy

• Unlimited calling subject to fair usage
• Typically 250-300 minutes per day limit
• Excessive usage may be regulated

Post-Quota Charges

• Data: 50 paise per MB after 1GB exhausted
• Voice: Standard rates if FUP exceeded
• SMS: Rs. 1 per message after 300 SMS

Competitor Comparison Analysis

Vs. Jio Similar Plans

Jio Rs. 198 Plan Advantages:

• 2GB data (100% more)
• 23-day validity (2 extra days)
• Jio apps included

Airtel Rs. 189 Advantages:

• Rs. 9 cheaper
• Better voice call quality
• Established network coverage

Vs. Vi (Vodafone Idea)

Vi doesn’t offer a direct competitor to this price point, with their cheapest unlimited calling plan starting at Rs. 199.

Network Performance and Coverage

Speed and Connectivity

4G Performance:

• Average download: 15-25 Mbps
• Upload speeds: 5-10 Mbps
• Latency: 40-60ms

5G Access:

• Available in 5G cities
• Same data quota applies
• Faster speeds where available

Coverage Statistics:

• 99%+ population coverage
• Strong rural penetration
• Reliable indoor coverage

Tips to Maximize Value

Data Conservation Strategies

Use WiFi Whenever Possible Connect to trusted WiFi networks to preserve mobile data.

Enable Data Saver Mode Activate data compression in browser and apps.

Monitor Usage Check data consumption regularly via Airtel Thanks app.

Background App Restriction Disable automatic updates and background sync.

Smart Usage Tips

Voice Call Quality

• Use VoLTE for crystal clear calls
• Enable WiFi calling when available
• Ensure good network signal for best experience

SMS Management

• Use messaging apps on WiFi to save SMS quota
• Reserve SMS for important notifications
• Check balance before sending multiple messages

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this plan for mobile hotspot?

Yes, you can share the 1GB data via hotspot, but it will consume from the same quota.

What happens after 21 days?

Your number moves to grace period. You need to recharge to continue services.

Is 5G included?

Yes, 5G access is included where available, using the same 1GB quota.

Can I port to Airtel with this plan?

Yes, this plan can be used as first recharge after porting to Airtel.

Are there any hidden charges?

No hidden charges. All fees clearly mentioned in terms and conditions.

Should You Choose Airtel Rs. 189 Plan?

Best Choice If:

• You make frequent voice calls
• Data usage is minimal (under 50MB daily)
• Looking for most affordable unlimited calling
• Need temporary mobile solution
• Using as secondary number

Avoid If:

• Heavy data user (streaming, gaming)
• Need daily data quotas
• Require long-term plans
• Want maximum data for money

Conclusion

Airtel’s Rs. 189 prepaid pack serves a specific niche in the market – users who prioritize voice calling over data consumption. At just Rs. 9 per day, it offers the most affordable unlimited calling solution in India’s current telecom landscape.

While the 1GB data might seem limited compared to data-heavy plans, it’s perfectly adequate for basic internet usage like checking messages, light browsing, and essential app usage.

Bottom Line: This plan delivers excellent value for light users, elderly subscribers, and anyone needing a cost-effective short-term mobile solution. However, heavy data users should consider higher-priced alternatives.

Key Takeaways:

• Rs. 189 for 21 days unlimited calling
• 1GB total data and 300 SMS included
• Perfect for light users and secondary SIMs
• Available pan-India with easy recharge options
• Most affordable unlimited calling plan currently available

Next Steps: Visit Airtel Thanks app or nearest store to activate this budget-friendly plan today.