No unknown numbers calling anymore soon, govt makes displaying caller name mandatory from November 1
The Indian government has mandated that telecom providers implement a Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) system starting November 1, 2026. This system will display the caller's name and number on mobile screens to help users identify incoming calls.
Why it matters
This initiative aims to reduce spam and fraud by providing verified caller identification, significantly impacting consumer privacy and telecommunications security in India.
Soon, you will not have any unknown callers as the Government of India is mandating caller ID for users. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed telecom service providers (TSPs) to introduce Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) from 1 November 2026. CNAP is India’s verified caller identification system which can display the caller’s number and name.As per the DoT order, CNAP will be enabled by default for every user on 4G and higher-generation mobile networks, such as 5G. When you receive a call, CNAP will display the name and the number of the person calling. The rollout on 2G and 3G networks and public switched telephone networks will be considered separately, the order said.How will caller ID work?According to the order, when a call is received, the first field on the screen will show the caller's number. The second will display the name saved in the recipient's contacts.
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