DoT selects Telcordia, Syniverse for MNP tech

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has selected two global majors — Telcordia Technologies (formerly Bell Communications) and Syniverse Technologies — to provide solutions for implementation of mobile number portability (MNP) in the country.

The government had earlier said that the names of the successful bidders for the grant of MNP licences would be announced in the first week of March this year.

MNP is a technology that enables mobile phone users to retain their existing numbers when shifting from one mobile network operator to another.

Telcordia Technologies and Syniverse Technologies were selected from a list of many global and Indian companies shortlisted earlier. Both the companies will provide solutions for 11 circles each (of the total 22 circles) in the country, sources close to the development told Business Standard.

The decision was taken at a meeting held in Delhi today.

When contacted, Telcordia India representative Ashok Sapra said: “We are optimistic about the MNP business in India and look forward to offering an effective solution to Indian consumers if we are awarded the number portability service contract. However, we have not heard from the DoT or the government as of now.” Syniverse could not be immediately reached for comments.

Telcordia is the world’s leading provider of MNP services and has solutions deployed across nine countries, including the US, Canada, Egypt, Greece and South Africa. Syniverse Technologies is a major player in voice and data solutions and has also implemented MNP across global locations.

The country has been divided into two areas for the implementation of MNP, with 11 circles coming under each area. The companies would get revenues by implementing solutions for existing players, both mobile and fixed line operators.

After a delayed start, the government had issued guidelines for awarding of MNP service licences in August 2008.

The government was planning to implement MNP in all the four metros — New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai — and category ‘A’ circles (major cities and towns) within six months of awarding the licence.

Rollout of MNP services in the remaining part of the country was slated to commence within one year of awarding of the licence.

Last month, Minister of Communications and Information Technology A Raja had informed the Rajya Sabha that the successful bidders would be announced on March 5, 2009. The minister had also stated that they would be issued Letters of Intent (LoI) on this date.

The tender for grant of MNP service licences was floated on November 25, 2008.