The number game begins

Mobile number portability (MNP) that allows a mobile subscriber to retain his/her existing mobile number despite changing the mobile operator, is finally available in India starting yesterday. MNP will now be available in Rohtak, Haryana, for a user base of 18 million, and then eventually roll out across India by January 20, 2011.

The service will be available to both pre-paid and post-paid subscribers. Post-paid users have to clear all pending bills with the present operator before migrating to another. The pre-paid user has to do away with the balance amount, if any.

HOW
Step 1: Users will have to send an SMS to 1900

Format: PORT<space> Mobile Number

Step 2: A confirmation SMS having a unique porting code (UPC) will be sent to the user by the existing services provider. The UPC will be valid for 15 days.

Step 3: The subscriber will then have to submit the filled in application form to the new service provider of one’s choice by quoting the UPC. The user has to visit the outlet of the new service provider and furnish documents.

Step 4: If there are no outstanding dues, approval for porting will be given.

Step 5: The User will receive a message confirming the time and date of porting.

Step 6: The user will get an SMS from the new operator confirming the switch over

TIME REQUIRED
# Network migration can take up to four days

# Phone services will be disrupted for a maximum of two hours during the network switch-over.

# Once the process is over, a user cannot migrate to another service provider for 90 days.

COST
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India set a ceiling of Rs 19. The subscriber would have to pay the amount to the new service provider.