WhatsApp automation for business in India: what it is, how it works and what it costs
WhatsApp automation means using a chatbot on the official WhatsApp Business API to reply to customers instantly, qualify leads, share catalogues and quotes, collect payments and send updates and offers, without someone typing every message. In India, plans with SCAIL start at ₹6,000 a month for about 4,000 to 5,000 conversations.
Why WhatsApp, and why automate it?
For most Indian customers WhatsApp is the default way to talk to a business. The problem is response time: enquiries arrive at night, on weekends and in bursts after an ad goes live, and a slow reply often means a lost sale. Automation answers in seconds, asks the right questions and only passes ready-to-buy customers to your team.
What can a WhatsApp chatbot do?
| Job | What the bot does |
|---|---|
| Capture leads | Collects name, requirement, budget and location from ads, QR codes, website and missed calls |
| Answer questions | Guided menus and FAQs, 24x7, with handover to a person when needed |
| Sell | Shares catalogue items, sends a quote, confirms the order and shares a payment link |
| Update | Order confirmations, delivery status, invoices and reminders |
| Re-engage | Offers, new arrivals and "still interested?" follow-ups to opted-in customers |
How does it work?
- Onboarding: Meta Business verification, a WhatsApp Business Account and your number registered on the API.
- Flows: conversation journeys built around how you actually sell, with buttons so customers do not have to type.
- Entry points: Click-to-WhatsApp ads, QR codes in-store, a website chat button and missed-call follow-ups.
- Dashboard: every lead lands in one place, tagged and assigned to your team.
What does WhatsApp automation cost in India?
| Plan | Price | Conversations |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | ₹6,000/month | About 4,000–5,000 a month |
| Half-yearly | ₹30,000/6 months | About 4,000–5,000 a month |
| Yearly | ₹54,000/year | About 4,000–5,000 a month |
One-time costs cover Meta onboarding and verification, and chatbot setup based on complexity. Extra conversations are charged separately and WhatsApp billing is handled by Meta. See the full breakdown on our WhatsApp Automation page.
Key takeaways
- WhatsApp automation replies in seconds, 24x7, so enquiries do not go cold.
- Use the official WhatsApp Business API, not unofficial tools.
- Every entry point (ads, QR, website, missed calls) should feed one flow.
- Plans start at ₹6,000 a month with SCAIL.
Frequently asked questions
Is WhatsApp automation legal in India?
Yes, when it runs on the official WhatsApp Business API from Meta, uses approved message templates and only messages customers who have opted in.
How long does it take to set up WhatsApp automation?
Usually one to two weeks, depending on Meta business verification and how many flows and integrations you need.
Do I need a new phone number?
Not always. An existing number can usually be moved to the API, but it then stops working in the regular WhatsApp app and runs through the automation platform and team inbox instead.
Want this for your brand?
Call or WhatsApp +91 97112 07437, or tell us about your brand.