Telecom regulator mandates caller name display service from November 2026

The Indian government and telecom regulator TRAI have made caller name display service mandatory across the country starting November 1 2026. This service will show the true name of the caller on the screen instead of just the phone number. The name will come directly from telecom company databases that store official identity documents submitted during SIM registration. Two fields will appear in the calling line identification: the telephone number and the official name. If the number is saved in the user's contacts the saved name will appear.

Otherwise the registered name from the telecom record will show for domestic calls while international calls will clearly display international call. The mandate applies only to 4G and 5G networks at this time. Business users with bulk connections may display an authorized trade name instead of their personal name. This trade name must be registered either in the trademark registry or on the Goods and Services Tax portal. Companies must update their business call settings only after full verification and documentation.

The government has ordered that caller name identity data must not be stored on servers after the call ends. Telecom companies must establish a strong system to receive and resolve complaints within a fixed timeframe. Users who have opted for calling line identification restriction will not have their names displayed on screen. The service aims to reduce fraud spam and confusion caused by fake calls pretending to be banks lottery officials or loan providers.

Reported by Amar Ujala Tech.