On 28-10-2025, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (‘TRAI’) issued its formal response to the Department of Telecommunications (‘DoT’), paving the way for the introduction of Calling Name Presentation (‘CNAP’) across Indian telecommunication networks. This verified caller ID system, integrated into licensed telecom services, will display the registered name of the caller on the recipient’s phone screen, even without an internet connection.
What’s CNAP:
Calling Name Presentation (‘CNAP’) is a supplementary telecom service that enables the called party to see the verified name of the caller, sourced from the telecom operator’s KYC database. The service is designed to reduce spam, fraud, and anonymous calls by providing trusted identity information at the time of call setup.
Background:
DoT’s Initial Reference (21-3-2022)
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DoT formally asked TRAI to examine the feasibility of introducing CNAP in Indian telecom networks.
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Highlighted that current systems only support Calling Line Identification (CLI), which shows the number but not the name.
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Requested TRAI to provide recommendations under Section 11(1)(a) of the TRAI Act, 1997.
TRAI’s Recommendations (23-2-2024)
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TRAI submitted a detailed framework for CNAP after issuing a consultation paper and gathering stakeholder feedback.
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Recommended CNAP as a supplementary service, with technical models, privacy safeguards, and licensing amendments.
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Suggested a trial phase and coordination with device manufacturers for compatibility.
DoT’s Back-Reference (269-2025)
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DoT reviewed TRAI’s recommendations and sent a back-reference suggesting modifications to certain points.
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It suggested that CNAP be enabled by default, with an opt-out option for users.
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TRAI was asked to reconsider specific terms and prioritize implementation for modern networks.
Key Points:
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CNAP will be enabled by default for all subscribers. Users who do not wish to use the service can opt out through a defined procedure.
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TRAI has proposed a two-phase technical model:
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Phase 1 (for current circuit-switched networks): CNAM databases maintained by providers; terminating provider queries the originating provider’s database.
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Phase 2 (for future IP-based networks): CNAM data transmitted over signaling paths.
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Trials for CNAP implementation in 4G and higher networks have already been successfully conducted by telecom service providers.
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TRAI suggested that CNAP support be mandated in all new devices sold in India after a suitable cut-off date (e.g., 6 months post-notification), with coordination from Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
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CNAP will be included in telecom service licenses to ensure regulatory compliance and uniform implementation.
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TRAI reaffirmed CNAP as a supplementary service, citing international standards:
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ITU-T I.251.9
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ETSI TS 122 096
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ITU-T I.210
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CNAM will not be presented if the caller has activated Calling Line Identification Restriction (CLIR), ensuring user privacy is respected.
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CNAP will rely strictly on KYC-verified names from telecom operators. It will not use crowdsourced or user-edited data like third-party caller ID apps, ensuring authenticity and regulatory compliance.
TRAI’s final recommendations mandate CNAP as a default-enabled supplementary service with opt-out provisions. Implementation will proceed in phases, supported by licensing updates, device compatibility, and privacy safeguards.