BSNL gets security clearance to procure MNP gateway

State-run BSNL has received the security clearance for importing equipment needed to upgrade its network for mobile number portability (MNP), which will allow users to retain their numbers when switching operators.

According to sources, BSNL received the security clearance from the Intelligence Bureau earlier this month.

BSNL Chairman and Managing Director Kuldeep Goyal confirmed, saying the company had received security clearance for MNP gateway in February.

BSNL had applied for clearance to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in December last year.

However, the Intelligence Bureau had sought additional information on the manufacturer, along with some additional parameters about the equipment.

The clearance means the state-run telecom company can now place the purchase order for procuring equipment.

BSNL had sought the intervention of DoT to expedite the security clearance process to import the equipment so that it could meet the deadline.

All mobile service providers in the country have been asked to ready their networks for implementing MNP by March 31 this year. However, even though BSNL has received security clearance, it (BSNL) feels it may not be able to stick to the deadline of March 31. Goyal said: “We have issued the advanced purchase order, but supply of equipment, installation and testing would take time till mid-May... March 31 deadline looks difficult as far as we are concerned.”