New Delhi, Aug. 17 -- In a fresh twist to the telecom tariff wars, market leader Reliance Jio has held on to its Rs.299 entry-level plan even as rival Bharti Airtel discontinued its similar priced base-plan of 28-day validity.

Reliance Jio is also offering its users protection against any tariff hike for the next one year at a one-time charge of Rs.300 through the Jio Prime membership programme, according to company executives. This means Jio Prime users can continue recharging on their existing recharge plans until 5 September 2027, irrespective of any tariff hike.

The prime membership programme is for Jio's existing and new users and includes priority customer support, early access to its products, services and trials, as well as Rs.3...