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    Guide🇮🇳 Indian Telecom Context

    India's 22 Telecom Circles Explained: Why Your Code Might Not Work

    Understanding telecom circles and why some USSD codes work in some states but not others.

    DataLoan Team5 minUpdated: 2 Nov 2026

    India's 22 Telecom Circles Explained

    India is divided into 22 telecom circles (also called Licensed Service Areas). This affects data loan availability.

    What is a Telecom Circle?

    A telecom circle is a geographic region where operators are licensed to provide services. Each circle may have different:

  1. USSD codes
  2. Plans and prices
  3. Service availability

    4. Metro vs Category A/B/C Circles

    Metro Circles (4)

  4. Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai
  5. Best services, all features available

    6. Category A (3)

  6. Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh
  7. Good coverage, most features

    8. Category B (4)

  8. Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Punjab
  9. Standard services

    10. Category C (11)

  10. Remaining circles including J&K, NE
  11. Variable service availability

    12. Why BSNL Codes Vary

    BSNL operates differently in each circle because:

  12. Different infrastructure levels
  13. Local management decisions
  14. Revenue considerations

    15. Tips for Users

  15. Check your circle before using codes
  16. Try alternate codes if one fails
  17. Contact local customer care for accurate info
    18. telecom circles Indiawhy USSD not workingLSA India

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