The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has released new recommendations to address the growing need for numbering resources for fixed-line and mobile services in India. One of the key proposals is the introduction of 11-digit mobile numbers.
Key Recommendations from TRAI
Switch to 11-Digit Mobile Numbers
TRAI recommends transitioning from the current 10-digit mobile numbers to 11-digit numbers. This change aims to accommodate the increasing demand for mobile connections in the country. By making this switch, TRAI anticipates the creation of a significantly larger pool of available numbers.
Increased Capacity
According to TRAI, moving to 11-digit mobile numbers, with the first digit being ‘9’, would provide a total capacity of 10 billion numbers. This is a substantial increase compared to the current system. The regulatory body estimates that this increased capacity would suffice until India reaches 7 billion mobile connections, based on the current policy of number allocation after 70% utilization.
Ensuring Adequate Numbering Resources
The recommendation to use 11-digit numbers is part of a broader strategy by TRAI to ensure adequate numbering resources for both fixed-line and mobile services. This strategy is crucial to accommodate the rapid growth in mobile connections and to future-proof the telecom infrastructure in India.
Additional Recommendation: Prefix ‘0’ for Fixed-Line to Mobile Calls
In addition to the proposal for 11-digit mobile numbers, TRAI has also recommended using ‘0’ as a prefix when calling mobile numbers from fixed-line connections. This measure is intended to standardize dialing practices and further optimize numbering resources.
Implications of the Transition
The transition to 11-digit numbers will require adjustments across various sectors, including telecom operators, businesses, and consumers. However, the long-term benefits of increased numbering capacity and future-proofing India’s telecom infrastructure outweigh the initial inconvenience. This shift is expected to cater to the growing demand for mobile connections and enhance the overall efficiency of the telecom system.
Conclusion
TRAI’s proposal to implement 11-digit mobile numbers is a forward-looking step to address the burgeoning demand for mobile connections in India. By expanding the numbering capacity, TRAI aims to ensure that the telecom infrastructure can support the country’s rapid growth and evolving communication needs.
