New Delhi, Aug. 12 -- A year after the last major pricing revision, indirect tariff hikes have returned to the Indian telecom market, driven by Bharti Airtel. The Sunil Bharti Mittal-led carrier has removed its entry-level Rs.299 monthly prepaid pack plan that offered 1 GB per day data. To get a daily data allowance for 28 days, subscribers must now upgrade to the Rs.349 plan, marking a Rs.50 (16.7%) increase for an offering that includes 1.5GB of daily data and unlimited 5G access.

According to Kawoosa, investors will see this as a positive move by the telecom operator. He said competitors could follow, given that the sector is looking to improve its profitability and return on investments.

Kar also said rivals may eventually follow su...