Government orders telecoms to display caller names with numbers from Nov 1
A new directive requires telecom operators to show the caller’s name alongside the phone number on incoming calls starting Nov 1, 2026.
A circular issued on Oct 13 directs all telecom service providers to implement caller name presentation (CNAP) across the country from Nov 1 2026. The service will place the caller’s name next to the telephone number on the recipient’s screen, using the name stored in the originating provider’s subscriber database for unsaved domestic numbers; unsaved international numbers will appear as “International Call”. The rollout initially covers 4G and higher-generation networks, with separate assessment for 2G, 3G and public switched telephone networks.
Business and bulk connections can opt to show a verified trademark or GST-registered trade name instead of the default subscriber name, subject to provider verification. Providers must adopt a security-by-design approach, ensuring name data is not retained after the call, and must maintain service quality. They are required to establish grievance-redress mechanisms and must not display the name for users who have activated CLIR.
Why it matters
It gives phone users clearer caller identification, helping reduce spam and fraud calls.
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