TRAI just a while ago has released recommendations on implementing mobile number portability [MNP] in India which is already running late by just 2 years 🙂
TRAI is supporting implementation on PAN-India basis but starting from metros. TRAI has recommended to setup a neutral third party MNP Clearing house and the company will not have substantial equity directly or indirectly in any of the telecom service provider in India. Telecom FDI limits apply on the company. The revenue to this company shall be from porting transaction fees.
On the subscribers front, for a pre-paid subscriber having balance and moving to a new operator, no credit shall be transferred. TRAI proposes a “break before make” for porting the number and should be completed within 2 hours. [Is it really feasible ?]
Finally, 2 years after the initial buzz recommendations are in place and hopefully by March-2009 the MNP will be up and running 🙂