Centre Tightens SIM Rules, No New Connection for Users Already Holding 9 Numbers

August 21, 2026

New Delhi: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed telecom service providers not to issue new mobile connections to subscribers who have already reached the prescribed limit of nine SIMs in their name.

According to an official circular, telecom operators must put in place technical and organisational measures from August 24, 2026, to identify subscribers attempting to obtain mobile connections beyond the permitted limit and deny them a new SIM.

New Checks to Begin From August 24

The DoT has asked telecom service providers to verify whether an applicant has already reached the maximum permitted number of mobile connections before allowing another SIM to be issued.

Subscribers who already have nine mobile connections across telecom operators and licensed service areas will be informed that they have reached the maximum limit and cannot be provided another connection. The limit is six mobile connections in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and the North-East licensed service areas.

Digital Intelligence Platform to Help Identify Subscribers

Telecom operators have been directed to use the DoT’s Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), which uses subscriber data uploaded by telecom companies to identify individuals holding connections across different operators.

From August 23, a representative image of subscribers who have already reached the prescribed connection limit will also be made available on the platform to help operators identify such customers. The DoT has asked operators to integrate the system with the process of enrolling and activating new mobile connections on a real-time basis by November 30, 2026.

Excess Connections May Face Suspension

The DoT circular said subscribers who have already obtained connections beyond the prescribed limit are listed on the Digital Intelligence Platform. Until telecom companies fully implement the new system, any mobile connection activated beyond the limit may be immediately suspended until the issue is resolved.

The move is aimed at strengthening verification of mobile connections and preventing subscribers from exceeding the maximum number of SIMs permitted in their name.