By Anshul Tewari:
YES! The much awaited mobile number portability is here – and it seems that everyone was waiting for it. Just yesterday, Prime Minister launched the pan India portability and lauded the telecom industry, which seems to be growing by leaps and bounds each day. The development is surely worth noting, as it could be instrumental in further development of the telecom industry.
So, what is Mobile Number Portability? (MNP)
Mobile Number Portability (MNP), in simple terms is the ability to change your mobile service provider without changing your phone number. In other words, you will now have the ability to shift from say, a Vodafone to an Airtel and vice-versa, without changing your 10 digit mobile number.
Ok, but do I need it?
The concept of MNP has been developed and introduced for one single reason – to empower mobile phone users to choose what they want, when they want, and what suits them best. It gives you the power to choose your operator without having to undergo the pain of changing the number. It is a perfect concept for those who have been fed up of their operator and wish to switch to a better one.
MNP will help you get rid of the network glitches you face now and then, and help you get better prepaid and postpaid plans and offers from various networks, depending on your calling needs.
Almost all telecom brands have begun advertising this, and are asking customers to switch to their service for a better user experience.
How to port your mobile number?
The concept is simple and Mobile Number Portability is easy. The steps are as follows:
- Type a message: PORT<space>Your 10 digit mobile number, send it to 1900,
- You will receive your unique identification code,
- Deposit your identification documents and the unique code to the customer care outlet of your preferred service provider,
- Once all your documents are approved, your service provider will be changed within 7 days of you depositing the documents,
- You will be charged a fee of Rs. 19 by your new provider, and your number will be in no service mode for approximately 2 hours on the night of change in the operator.
Simple. In’it?
The best part? Since MNP will empower consumers to switch their mobile operators easily, it will compel service providers to better their services if they do not wish to lose their customer base to a better provider. Get ready for good network coverage (hopefully), better calling and SMS rates and regular offers.
The big question? Will you opt for a better service provider? Are you willing to port your number? Drop a comment below.