Airtel deployment
[Representational Image] Airtel vs Reliance Jio: Top telecom player increases base Rs. 259 4G internet pack’s benefits by tenfold. In Picture:A Bharti Airtel office building is pictured in Gurugram, previously known as Gurgaon, on the outskirts of New Delhi, India April 21, 2016.Reuters

Leading telecom company Airtel on Wednesday increased benefits of base 4G data pack by 100 per cent in India, intensifying its rivalry with debutant Reliance Jio, which has amassed 16 million subscribers within two months of its launch, thanks to the predatory free welcome offer.

Airtel's Rs 259 4G package, which used to offer 1GB data benefits, has now been increased to 10GB for all users, who buy the new 4G handsets from Wednesday onwards across India.

Also read: Airtel consumers can grab iPhone 7 series for as low as Rs 19,990 in India

During the currency recharge process, 1GB data will be instantly credited to the customer's account and then user can claim for additional 9GB data through the MyAirtel App. The data is said to be valid for 28 days and subscribers can avail a maximum of three recharges within 90 days.

In non-4G circles, 10GB 3G data will be made available to customers with their 4G devices.

For existing subscribers, Airtel is offering special 4G prepaid pack for Rs 1,495 with free unlimited 4G data for 90 days.

Read more: Airtel launches unlimited 4G data plan to counter Reliance Jio's welcome offer

"We are proud to have pioneered 4G network for users in India. This invitational offer has been designed for our data savvy customers who can now experience high speed broadband on Airtel's 4G network with their new devices," Airtel said.

Lately Airtel has become increasingly aggressive by launching a bevy of lucrative data packs to retain its customers from migrating to Reliance Jio.

Last month, Airtel launched a new International Roaming (IR) pack offering free incoming, SMSs and limited time free out-going calls.

Also read: Airtel vs Reliance Jio: Top telecom player launches new international roaming packs with free unlimited incoming calls and SMSs

Airtel has also stepped up its efforts to increase 4G coverage in more areas in India. Airtel 4G service is now available in 18 circles across India. It was offered first in Kolkata in 2012.

Read more: Airtel vs Reliance Jio: Top network carrier launches lucrative high-speed Internet packs, extends 4G coverage to Gujarat