In February 2024, Indian telecom users made over 1 crore requests to port their SIM cards. Mobile number portability (MNP) allows consumers to switch to another telecom operator’s network while retaining their existing phone number. After porting, users simply need to obtain a new SIM card from their chosen operator, ensuring continuity of service.
According to data from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), approximately 11.54 million MNP requests were made in February 2024. Of these, 6.54 million requests originated from Zone-1 (Northern and Western India), while 4.99 million requests came from Zone-2 (Southern and Eastern India). This brought the total cumulative MNP requests in India to 951.09 million by the end of February.
To prevent misuse of MNP, TRAI has implemented rules prohibiting customers who have recently ported (within 90 days) or activated a new SIM (also within 90 days) from porting again to another operator. Despite the high number of MNP requests, not all customers follow through with the switch, often opting to remain with their current operator.
In January 2024, there were 12.36 million MNP requests, indicating a consistent trend of users exploring alternative network options. Combining January and February 2024, a total of 23.9 million MNP requests were recorded, suggesting a significant level of consumer interest in switching operators. If this trend persists, it is anticipated that around 35 million MNP requests will be made in the January-March 2024 quarter.
