Jio and Airtel Announce Free Calling and Data Benefits for Flood-Hit States: Full Details

As relentless rains and devastating floods continue to wreak havoc across Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh, telecom giants Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have stepped in to provide critical relief measures for affected customers. With thousands stranded and many families cut off from communication, the move aims to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for people in disaster-hit areas.

Jio Offers Free Validity Extension and Extra Data

Reliance Jio has announced a 3-day validity extension for all its prepaid users in the flood-affected states. In addition, customers will receive 2GB of high-speed data per day and unlimited voice calls for the same period.

For JioHome broadband users, the company has extended services by three days to prevent any disruption. Meanwhile, postpaid users in the affected regions will benefit from a 3-day grace period for bill payments, ensuring they can continue making calls and accessing the internet without fear of disconnection.

A Jio spokesperson highlighted that the initiative is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to ensuring seamless communication during natural disasters:
“We understand how crucial connectivity is during emergencies. Our relief measures are designed to help people stay connected with their families and access essential services in these testing times.”

Airtel Extends Free Calling and Data Benefits

Bharti Airtel has also rolled out special emergency measures for users in the flood-hit areas. Airtel prepaid customers will get a 3-day validity extension along with 1GB of free high-speed data per day and unlimited calling during this period.

Just like Jio, Airtel postpaid and broadband users will also enjoy a 3-day grace period for bill payments, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity. This is expected to bring significant relief to customers who are struggling to manage basic services amid severe rainfall, floods, and landslides.

Government Mandates Intra-Circle Roaming for Seamless Connectivity

To further strengthen relief efforts, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has instructed all telecom operators to enable intra-circle roaming (ICR) in Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh till September 2, 2025.

This means that users will be able to automatically switch to any available mobile network if their operator’s signal is down. The move is expected to be a game-changer in ensuring that emergency calls, rescue coordination, and essential communication can continue without interruption.

Officials stressed that this measure will particularly help first responders, rescue teams, and stranded citizens in remote regions where connectivity issues are at their peak.

Why This Initiative Matters

Connectivity is often the first casualty during natural disasters, yet it is also the most vital lifeline for affected communities. With both Jio and Airtel stepping in, millions of citizens in flood-hit regions now have better access to emergency support, family communication, and real-time weather and rescue updates.

Experts believe that such initiatives also reflect the increasingly important role of telecom operators in disaster management. Apart from commercial services, the ability to stay connected during crises can directly influence survival, relief coordination, and psychological support for affected families.

A Lifeline for Flood-Hit Citizens

The combined efforts of Jio, Airtel, and the government are being widely welcomed. With many roads blocked, villages cut off, and communication towers damaged, telecom relief measures are emerging as a crucial lifeline. By extending free validity, offering high-speed data, and enabling roaming across networks, operators are ensuring that no one is left disconnected in this time of crisis.

As rescue operations intensify in Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh, staying connected is not just about convenience — it is about survival.