Mobile Number Portability - On its way

Yes, if reports are to be believed, MNP will make it to the market by mid-09. It is learnt that DoT has already started the process by allowing operators to bid for the same. Here are some dates that have been earmarked:

• Feb 6th - last day for submission of bids


• Feb 16th - List of qualified companies to be shared


• March 5th - results declared


• Mid 2009 - launch, only if the above two deadlines are  met

What was decided or heard about till now was that a user would have to pay a charge to change his/her operator, which could sum upto Rs.300 or more. However, the telecom regulators have taken the responsibility of fixing this charge and making it a standard in the sector, thus disallowing any kind of malpractice.

[Source]