From Dec 31, cell users can switch service, retain nos

Cellphone users in India will soon be able to change their service providers while retaining their numbers. Telecom regulator Trai on Wednesday issued regulations that will govern telecom mobile number portability (MNP) when it is launched on December 31 in metros and ‘A’ category circles and in the rest of the country by March 20 next year.

    MNP allows subscribers to retain their existing mobile telephone number when they move from one service provider to another in a licensed service area, irrespective of the mobile technology. It is thus a highly consumer-friendly initiative as it helps increase competition between service providers, catalysing improved quality of service.

    The deadline for implementation of MNP has already been extended twice, following resistance from operators who fear losing their high value, post-paid subscribers.

    “Implementing MNP by December 31 will be a real challenge as there are many unresolved issues,’’ director general of COAI, T V Ramachandran admitted to TOI.