Telecom operator Vi has rolled out India’s first recharge-linked handset theft and loss insurance plan for prepaid customers, offering much-needed protection for smartphones lost or stolen. The move is expected to benefit a large number of mobile users in Meghalaya, where prepaid connections dominate the telecom market.
The new insurance facility is available for both Android and iOS devices and comes bundled with select prepaid recharge packs. Under the plan, customers can claim insurance coverage of up to ₹25,000 in case of handset loss or theft. This is significant, as traditional handset insurance policies usually cover only accidental damage and often exclude theft or loss.
Smartphones are widely used for education, digital payments, office work and daily communication. Students, shop owners and working professionals depend heavily on their phones, and replacing a lost handset can be financially difficult. With mid-range smartphones costing between ₹20,000 and ₹25,000, the new plan offers timely relief. Vi has introduced three recharge options priced at ₹61 for 30 days, ₹201 for 180 days, and ₹251 for 365 days. Along with insurance, these packs also include data benefits. The company said the digital-first claim process will simplify paperwork and help customers receive quicker settlements.