Launched last week, "Sabka Internet, Sab ka Vikas", a campaign about making the Internet accessible and affordable for every Indian, seeks a level playing field with net-based services like Skype and WhatsApp.
The industry body said if the telecom operators are not offered a level playing field with net-based services, then their businesses would be viable only by raising data prices by up to six times.
It comes against the backdrop of the debate over net neutrality and allegations that telecom operators are hurting the concept of free Internet access by giving preferential treatment to a select few service providers.
"COAI started the outreach effort to ensure that mobile customers have the freedom to benefit from the power of the Internet in the way they would wish to, including the choice of platform, device and technology," said COAI director general Rajan S. Mathews.
