Telcos take decisive step on full MNP

 Mobile phone users would soon be able to dial STD numbers without adding ‘0’ or ‘+91’ as a prefix since telecom firms have started making technical changes in their network to introduce mobile number portability (MNP).

At present, only a few telecom firms have started installing the new system in a phased manner, while the remaining have already placed orders for the technology and for carrying out trial runs.

Vodafone and Airtel have implemented the system in their network across cities, while MTS India said it has rolled out the facility across nine circles. Customers of some telecom firms, however, would continue to prefix 0 or +91 for making STD calls since the service providers are yet to install the new system and make technical changes, said an official from the Department of Telecom (STD). The technical changes for removing the prefix 0 or +91 will make  full MNP a reality soon, said an official.

The Department of Telecom had directed telecom firms to implement full MNP by May 3. But the telecom operators sought two more months time for MNP, saying they need to introduce changes in their networks. This involved changing the national numbering plan (NNP), which involves removal of the prefix required to make STD calls. At present, operators distinguish between local and STD numbers. But in future all numbers would have the same dialling pattern.

FROMZEROTO HERO

Mobile phone users would soon be able to dial STD numbers without adding ‘0’ or ‘+91’ as a prefix

Vodafone and Airtel have installed the new system across cities, and MTS in 9 circles

Full MNP would allow subscribers to retain their mobile number in any part of the country

MNP now allows users to change the network while retaining their number in the same telecom circle.