TRAI issues draft rules for full mobile number portability

Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has issued draft regulations to facilitate full mobile number portability (MNP).
In this regard, TRAI has issued draft amendment to the Telecommunication Mobile Number Portability Regulation, 2009. It will enable mobile subscribers to retain their numbers when they shift to other states or telecom service areas.
TRAI has sought public comments on the subject by 6 February 2015.
Key highlights of draft amendment

• It insets a clause in current rules in order to safeguard interest of post-paid mobile service users. It was necessary as these users were facing disconnection in new network even after clearing all their dues of their old telecom service provider.
• It also fixed a time line for both the old or donor service providers and new or recipient service provider. This time line will clarify dues regarding the any with their subscribers to ensure continuity of service.

What is Mobile Number Portability?

Mobile Number Portability (MNP) enables mobile telephone users to retain their mobile telephone numbers when changing from one mobile network operator to another.
Currently, MNP norms allow users to retain their numbers while changing their operators within the same service area. It should be noted that India has 22 telecom circles or service areas.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2015