Top News

If you hold multiple mobile numbers in your name, this news is crucial for you. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under the Government of India has decided to implement new SIM card regulations nationwide, effective August 24, 2026. The DoT has issued a circular instructing all telecom companies to identify customers who already hold the maximum permissible number of mobile connections. Such customers will be clearly informed that they cannot acquire any new mobile numbers. This measure aims to curb the use of fake SIM cards and prevent fraud by ensuring that an excessive number of SIM cards are not issued to a single individual.

How many SIM cards can you hold?

Under current regulations, an individual in India can hold a maximum of nine mobile connections across various telecom companies and service areas. However, this limit is lower in certain regions; residents of Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and the North-Eastern states can hold a maximum of six mobile connections. Additionally, when filling out the Customer Application Form (CAF), customers are required to disclose the mobile connections already registered in their name.

How the new system will work

Initially, the new system will operate on a post-facto basis, meaning telecom companies will verify connections after they have been added. If a connection exceeding the prescribed limit is activated, it will be immediately suspended. However, the government has also directed companies to transition to a real-time system as soon as possible so that excess SIM card connections can be identified the moment they are added. Customer photographs will also be utilized in this new system. Starting August 23, the DoT will take photographs of customers who have already reached the maximum limit available on the DIP (Digital Intelligence Platform). Telecom companies will have to download these images daily and use them to identify customers attempting to obtain more connections than the permitted limit.