Security worry may delay cell no. portability

NEW DELHI: Consumers are in for a long wait and even potential withdrawal of the proposed launch of mobile number portability (MNP), with the proposal running into trouble with the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB).

Security concerns raised by the home ministry have forced the FIPB to defer its own approval in February 2009 to MNP Interconnection Solutions, one of two MNP service providers selected by the Department of Telecom. This is an extremely unusual situation that could even lead to the revocation of licence, involving a fresh tendering process.

US-based Telecordia Technologies owns 74% of MNP Interconnection with Indian partner Deepak Talwar Consultants holding 20%.

MNP allows subscribers to change their mobile service provider while retaining the number. Since MNP unleashes genuine competitive pressures, its biggest upside is a marked improvement in quality of service. It could also marginally reduce tariffs in international roaming and value-added services.