TRAI has issued a consultation paper on the issue of “free data” which explores ways to provide free internet access to consumers without violating differential pricing regulations. The paper discusses the need for having a service provider-agnostic platform for providing free data or suitable reimbursements to users. Further, the paper delves into whether such a platform should be regulated by TRAI or whether the market should be allowed a free hand. In addition, the regulator has also looked into whether free data services should be limited to mobile data users only or be extended through technical means to fixed line broadband and leased line users as well.