TRAI’s New Recommendations on National Numbering Plan

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recently released important recommendations regarding the ‘Revision of National Numbering Plan’. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for telecommunication identifiers (TIs) and numbering resources in an increasingly interconnected digital world. With billions of devices and users needing unique identification, the efficient use of numbering resources is crucial for ensuring reliable telecommunication services for consumers and businesses alike.

Understanding Telecommunication Identifiers

Telecommunication Identifiers (TIs) are essential for uniquely identifying users, services, network elements, and authorized entities within the telecom sector. As the digital landscape expands, the need for a robust numbering system becomes more pressing. The availability and efficient utilization of TIs ensure that consumers can access services seamlessly. In this context, TRAI’s recommendations are a response to the rapid growth in telecommunications and the constraints that have arisen from it.

TRAI received a reference letter from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on September 29, 2022, which highlighted the need for recommendations to tackle the shortage of fixed-line numbering resources. The letter requested TRAI to examine various aspects, including the Fixed-line numbering scheme, short-codes, and mobile network codes. In response, TRAI issued a consultation paper on June 6, 2024, inviting comments from stakeholders. An Open House Discussion was held on October 8, 2024, to gather further insights. The final recommendations reflect the input received during this consultation process.

Key Features of the Recommendations

The recommendations from TRAI include several significant features aimed at improving the numbering system. One of the primary recommendations is that there will be no additional charges or financial disincentives imposed on numbering resources at this stage. This decision aims to encourage the optimal use of available resources without placing a financial burden on telecom service providers (TSPs).

Additionally, the DoT will monitor the annual usage of numbering resources allocated to TSPs. If any resources remain unutilized, the DoT may withdraw them to ensure that numbering resources are effectively allocated. This proactive approach is intended to prevent resource wastage and promote efficient utilization.

To address the constraints in fixed-line services, TRAI recommends migrating from the Short Distance Charging Area (SDCA) to a License Service Area (LSA)-based 10-digit closed numbering scheme. This change will unlock numbering resources currently restricted to the SDCA level. The new dialing pattern will require users to dial a prefix of ‘0’, followed by the STD code and subscriber number for fixed-line calls. Importantly, existing subscriber numbers will remain unchanged, and TSPs will have six months to implement this new scheme.

Combating Unsolicited Commercial Communication

Another critical aspect of TRAI’s recommendations focuses on combating Unsolicited Commercial Communication (UCC), spam calls, and Caller Line Identification (CLI) spoofing. To address these issues, the DoT is urged to implement TRAI’s previous recommendations regarding the introduction of Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) services in the Indian telecommunication network. This service aims to enhance transparency by allowing users to see the name of the caller before answering.

Moreover, to prevent CLI spoofing, TRAI recommends the establishment of a CLI Authentication framework and a Distributed Certification Authority framework. These measures align with international standards set by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and are designed to enhance the security and reliability of telecommunication services.

Timeline for Implementation and Future Directions

The recommendations also outline a timeline for the deactivation of numbering resources for both mobile and fixed-line connections. TSPs will not deactivate any connections until 90 days after a non-usage period expires. Furthermore, all inactive connections must be deactivated after 365 days of non-usage. This approach ensures that users have ample time to reactivate their services before disconnection.

In terms of future developments, TRAI emphasizes the need for 13-digit Machine-to-Machine (M2M) numbering resources to meet current and future demands. The DoT is tasked with expeditiously implementing the shift of SIM-based M2M connections to the new 13-digit system. Additionally, level-1 shortcodes will be allocated free of charge to government entities, with annual audits conducted to assess their utilization.

These recommendations are now available on TRAI’s official website, providing stakeholders with access to the details of the proposed changes. For further clarification, interested parties can contact TRAI’s Advisor for Broadband and Policy Analysis.

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