Telecom Roundup: MNP Pan India by Jan 20th, Telemarketers to get special series number

The first phase of MNP (Mobile Number Portability) in India has begun and

Mobile number portability controlled roll out has begun [read how Mobile Number Portability works] and though the service has been rolled out only in Haryana, the pan India roll out will happen starting January 20th, 2011.

Telemarketers to pay Rs. 2 L Fine for Unwanted Calls?

Starting January, telemarketers will have to pay a fine (anywhere between RS. 25,000 – 2 L) for making unwanted calls and sending text messages. They will also get a special series number (starting with 70).

From ET: Under the new system, mobile users would get an option of blocking all telemarketing voice calls and receiving text messages only. And even while receiving text messages, they could specify an area of their choice such as banking, insurance, loans, automobiles, real estate, said a TRAI executive who did not wish to be named.
The telecom regulator will ensure that all telemarketing firms have mobile and landline numbers starting with the 70 series so that customers can identify such calls.
TRAI is also bringing about changes in the earlier format to add additional level of checks to ensure that customers registered with the DNC are not subject to pesky calls . “So far, telemarketers were required to scrub the number with the DNC registry , which was being maintained by the NIC. Now, both the mobile operator and the telemarketing firm will have to run a check,”.

2G Scam – TRAI Recommends Cancellation of 60 Licenses

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recommended cancellation of over 60 licenses given to six firms including Etisalat and Videocon.

The Union Telecom Minister issued notices to 85 licensees out of the 122 issued by his predecessor A Raja for 2G spectrum. These companies will have to explain why they fudged documents at the time of applying for licences. Most of the telecom companies have been put on notice including S-Tel, Uninor, Loop, and Videocon some of whom have begun services.[source]

Link to full article