Have nine SIMs? Centre says no more new connections

From August 24, telecom companies will be required to identify users who have reached the nine-SIM limit and prevent them from obtaining another connection

PGurus Newsdesk

August 21, 2026

Telecom operators will use a new verification system to identify subscribers who have already reached the permitted nine-connection limit

New checks will prevent subscribers from crossing the nine-SIM ceiling

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed telecom operators to stop issuing new mobile connections to subscribers who already have nine SIM cards registered in their name.

According to an official circular dated August 17, telecom service providers have been asked to put in place technical and organisational measures from August 24 to identify subscribers seeking additional connections beyond the prescribed limit and deny their requests.

Under the new system, operators will use the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), which contains subscriber data uploaded by telecom companies, to identify individuals who have reached the maximum permitted number of mobile connections.

The DoT said that from August 23, a representative image of each subscriber who has already reached the prescribed limit will also be made available on the DIP. This will help telecom operators identify such subscribers when they apply for additional mobile connections.

The department has asked telecom operators to streamline the process with the DIP by November 30, 2026.

Until the system is fully implemented, any mobile connection activated beyond the prescribed limit will have to be immediately suspended until the issue of exceeding the permitted limit is resolved, the circular said.

The existing rules allow an individual to have a maximum of nine mobile connections across telecom operators and licensed service areas in India. The limit is six connections in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and the North-East.

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