Mobile Number Portability (MNP) — which allows mobile subscribers to retain their existing number while changing operators — is on schedule to be rolled out across the country on November 1, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) chairman J.S. Sarma said on Friday.
“I don't anticipate any further delay in implementing the facility,” Mr. Sarma told The Hindu on the sidelines of an open house convened by TRAI on the inter-operability of DTH Set Top Boxes (STBs).
The rollout of MNP has missed previous deadlines with mobile operators seeking additional time to put in place infrastructure.
To curb telemarketing
On measures to curb unsolicited calls and bulk SMS, Mr. Sarma said new regulations to control telemarketing were expected to be ready by the end of this month, or the latest by the first week of October.
“We have held discussions with all stakeholders and we will certainly take a decision on this while keeping the interest of the consumer at the heart of our exercise,” he said.
On the outcome of the consultation on the inter-operability of DTH STBs, Mr. Sarma said TRAI would submit its recommendations soon to the government.
“This could lead to additional regulations,” he said.
