The central government, through the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), has introduced new strict rules regarding mobile connections. Starting from August 24, 2026, telecom operators will be prohibited from issuing new mobile numbers to individuals who have already reached the established SIM card limit in their name.
It is important to note that this rule applies to the total number of connections, regardless of whether they belong to different telecommunication companies. Thus, if a person has numbers from different operators, the total sum will be counted.
In most regions of India, the maximum limit set is nine mobile connections per person. However, in states such as Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and northeastern states, this limit is reduced to six mobile connections. This restriction applies to all telecommunication companies combined. According to new DoT directives, operators are obliged to verify how many numbers are already registered in the applicant's name. If the set threshold is exceeded, the new number will not be activated.
The new system involves photo verification. For this, the DoT's Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) will be used. Reports indicate that starting from August 23, photos of individuals who already have the established number of mobile connections will become available to telecom companies. After this, companies will have to check new SIM card applications daily using these photos and their own systems.
The process is scheduled to begin on August 24. Initially, if the check shows that a person has been issued a new SIM card exceeding the established limit, this additional number must be immediately suspended. By November 30, telecom companies must upgrade this system to ensure real-time verification.
A question arises about what will happen if ten or more SIM cards are registered in a person's name. The main goal of the new system is to prevent the issuance of new connections. According to reports, this system will also prevent the acquisition of new SIM cards beyond the established limit. In case of erroneous issuance of an additional connection, appropriate measures may follow. Therefore, if you have too many numbers or suspect someone used your documents to apply for a SIM card, it is crucial to check all active mobile connections in your name.
The nine SIM card rule is not tied to a single telecommunication company; for example, four SIMs from Airtel and two from Jio will be counted as six. That is, any SIM card from any company will be counted.
Mobile numbers are linked to bank accounts, UPI, social media, email, and numerous government services. The use of fake SIM cards is also employed in cyber fraud. This is why the government has long been taking steps against mobile connections obtained using false documents and cases of exceeding the established SIM card limit.
The DoT's Digital Intelligence Platform is used precisely for this purpose. According to official information, this platform facilitates the exchange of information concerning suspicious and illicit use of telecommunication resources among telecom companies, banks, financial institutions, police, and other agencies.
Now, simply providing a passport and other documents is not enough to obtain a new SIM card. The system will also check how many numbers are already actively registered in your name. If you have fewer than nine numbers, there is no need to worry. However, if you do not know how many SIM cards are actively registered in your name, it is recommended to conduct a check. It is possible that a number is registered in your name that you are unaware of, and this unknown SIM card may prevent you from obtaining a new number in the future.