Mobile number portability launched in Haryana's Rohtak; fee fixed at Rs19

The much-awaited mobile number portability (MNP) service, which allows mobile phone users to switch from one service provider to another, has finally arrived, with its formal launch in Rohtak, Haryana.

Beginning 20 December, the eight telecom operators in Haryana will offer the facility for migrating from one to the other at Rs19.

However, the customer - both pre-paid and post-paid - has to stay with a service provider for a minimum period of three months before opting to port his number to another operator.

The MNP facility, which allows subscribers to change their mobile phone operator while still retaining the phone number, will be rolled out nationwide in phases.

To begin with, MNP will be allowed only within circles. The maximum fee for the facility of switching from one operator to another, while keeping the mobile number, has been fixed at Rs19. The new operator, however, has the option to waive or reduce the fee.

There are eight mobile operators in Haryana: Airtel, Idea Cellular, BSNL, Aircel, Loop, Vodafone, Etisalat and Videocon.