TRAI proposes 10-digit landline numbering, calls for end of STD codes

In a major shift for India's fixed-line telephone system, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended eliminating the existing STD code system and moving to a 10-digit numbering format.

If approved by the government, this proposal will require landline users to dial all numbers in a standardised format, including local calls.

Under the new system, TRAI suggests that landline users must dial all fixed-line numbers with a '0' prefix, followed by the area code and the subscriber’s number - even for local calls within the same Short Distance Charging Area (SDCA). This move is aimed at optimising the usage of phone number resources and preventing shortages in the long term.

Currently, phone numbers are assigned based on the STD code system, but the new plan proposes allocation based on Licensed Service Areas (LSA), which are typically larger regions such as states or major cities. This transition will allow for better number management and free up unused phone numbers for future use.

Despite these changes, TRAI has reassured landline users that their existing numbers will remain unchanged. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has been advised to give telecom operators a six-month window to implement the new system smoothly.

TRAI has also recommended a more lenient policy for deactivated numbers. Mobile and landline connections will not be deactivated due to inactivity until 90 days after the non-usage period ends. Additionally, numbers that remain unused will only be permanently deactivated after 365 days.

For numbers deactivated due to reasons such as customer surrender or telecom operator-initiated disconnection, they can only be reassigned after a minimum of 180 days from the date of deactivation.

While TRAI had initially considered imposing penalties or charges for allocating phone number resources, it has decided against such measures for now. However, it has advised the DoT to monitor the annual usage of numbering resources by telecom operators and reclaim any unused allocations if necessary.

Alongside these recommendations, TRAI has urged the DoT to expedite the implementation of the caller name display system, a feature it had proposed last year. This system will apply to both regular telecom networks and IP-based calling systems used by businesses, enhancing transparency and security in communication.

If the government approves these recommendations, India's fixed-line telephone system will undergo a significant transformation, streamlining the dialing process and ensuring efficient use of numbering resources in the years to come.