Airtel-Blinkit SIM Delivery Paused Over KYC Concerns?

As per news reports, Bharti Airtel’s newly launched express SIM card delivery service in partnership with Blinkit has been put on hold after the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) raised security concerns over the post-delivery self-KYC (know-your-customer) process. 

Government Insists on Pre-Delivery KYC 

According to the reports, the DoT has directed Airtel to ensure Aadhaar-based KYC authentication is completed before delivering SIM cards to customers’ homes. This move aligns with existing telecom regulations, which require mobile number verification before activation to prevent misuse and ensure national security. 

Service to Be Reworked for Compliance 

In response, Airtel is now reworking the delivery process to ensure full compliance with the DoT’s instructions. The company is expected to resume the service once it aligns with regulatory norms. 

10-Minute SIM Delivery Faces Uncertainty 

The Airtel-Blinkit service had promised SIM card delivery within just 10 minutes, offering customers the convenience of activating their new numbers from home using Aadhaar-based authentication. The service, initially rolled out in 16 cities, charged a ₹49 convenience fee and allowed a 15-day window for customers to complete the KYC process post-delivery. 

However, with the current model now disallowed, it is unclear whether the ultra-fast delivery time can be retained if KYC must be completed beforehand. 

Initial Rollout and Future Plans 

The express SIM delivery was initially available in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, and others. Blinkit handled logistics while Airtel facilitated self-KYC and plan activation. The plan was to expand the service to more cities in phases. 

Also Read: Key Trends to Watch in May 2025: Indian Stock Market to Witness Several Events! 

Conclusion 

The temporary suspension of the Airtel-Blinkit express SIM delivery service underscores the government’s emphasis on security in telecom operations. While the concept offered unmatched convenience, regulatory compliance will now dictate the pace and structure of its future rollout. 

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