Trai, DoT differ on mobile number portability operators

Department of Telecom DoT is understood to be exploring the option of selecting four mobile number portability MNP operators on a regional basis as opposed to TRAI recommendations of a single centralised agency. DoT has already formed a committee to process the request for proposal RFP. However, in a recently held meeting, some member were in favour of exploring the option of four Mobile Number Portability Clearing House Administrator MCHAs and Number portability database NPDPs on grounds of security and anti-monopoly. DoT is yet to take a decision. But telecom regulator TRAI, which has suggested that the MCHA and NPDP be owned and operated by one legal entity licensed by the government, has expressed concern at this option. It said this would push up the MNP operator8217;s cost leading to rise in tariffs and also delay the implementation of MNP.