The long pending mobile number portability has been recommended for implementation [Deadline, I don’t know yet] by Telecom Minister A.Raja. I am not sure what were the recommendations of TRAI for Telephone [Wireless / Wireline] Number portability. However, A.Raja has recommended mobile [Wireless Only, Not sure if it also includes Fixed Wireless Phones (WLL) or just numbers beginning with “9”] number portability in metro circles – Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkatta. If A.Raja has accepted only fewer recommendation to favor Reliance’s entry into metro mobile circles, TRAI may once again write to him asking to accept or reject in full 🙂
Number portability can be for,
- Wireless [ GSM+ CDMA Mobile or GSM+CDMA Fixed Wireless Phone] , Intra or Inter Cirlce
- Wireline Intra or Inter circle
However, I think A.Raja has only recommended number portability for Mobile numbers. So if you are a cellular subscriber in any of the metros, you can retain the same number and change your service provider at a nominal cost. COAI said that the cost for number migration can be as high as 30-40 Euros. However, it is likely that TRAI will fix the migration fees.
COAI has pointed fingers at A.Raja for partial acceptance of TRAI recommendations and further added that this was uncalled for at this juncture since companies can invest in expanding mobile networks in rural areas. COAI is also of the opinion that the response for mobile number portability will be lukewarm due to the fact that 90% of the subscribers are pre-paid.
There are approximately 4 million moving mobile subscribers in India who do not stick to a service provider. Reliance has set its eyes on this segment as and when it enters the market. Also, Reliance can stand to gain from unsatisfied GSM service providers or Vice-Versa, but overall its a fantastic move to introduce number portability giving more choice and freedom to the consumer.
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