BSNL introduces new Kavach number feature to recharge offline without sharing your phone number; Available for women subscribers

The telecom company BSNL has been introducing new offers and features for its users to make them stick to its service and also increase its user base in India. Recently, on the occasion of Women’s Day, the company introduced a new “Kavach Number” feature, which is meant to ensure the safety of women.

Your phone number is personal.
Keep it that way.

Show your Kavach number at a BSNL store and recharge without revealing your real number.

BSNL Kavach – Recharge with Privacy.#BSNLKavach #RechargeSecurely #WomenSafetyMatters @CMDBSNL @robertravi21 pic.twitter.com/U2ZJskiGcW

— BSNL India (@BSNLCorporate) March 10, 2026

Before coming to this new feature, let’s talk about the concern addressed with this feature. Many of us have switched to recharging our devices online, but there have still been instances where we need to go to the recharge stores to get the recharge done (especially in rural areas). But lately, there have been ongoing concerns of leakage of customer contact numbers, resulting in harassment over calls or messages.

To reduce the chances of such misuse, BSNL has come up with the “Kavach Number” feature that allows women subscribers to recharge their mobile numbers at physical stores without revealing their numbers to the retailer. This feature aims to help women keep their numbers private and reduce the risk of unwanted contact.

What is the BSNL Kavach Number?

This is a 10-digit alternate number linked to the user’s actual mobile number. Once activated, the Kavach number will be received by the user via SMS. This number can be shared at the recharge stores instead of the real phone number, and the recharge can be done for the main account.

It works like a shield for women’s phone numbers, reducing the risk of their personal details being exposed.

How does it work?

• You can activate the Kavach feature by calling customer service at 1800 180 1503 or 1500 from your BSNL number
• After connecting with a customer care executive, you can request activation of the Kavach number
• Once activated, you will receive the Kavach number via SMS
• You can now share this number at recharge outlets to recharge your mobile

Do note that the Kavach number expires after some time, which means you will have to generate it every time you want to recharge your SIM.