India Orders Telcos to Show Registered Caller Names on Incoming Calls to Curb Scam Calls

The Indian government has told telecom service providers to show the registered name of a caller, as well as their number, on incoming calls from 1 November 2026. The aim is to help people identify unknown callers and cut down on spam and fraudulent calls. The Department of Telecommunications has issued a circular requiring providers to implement the Calling Name Presentation (CNAP) service.

The rule mainly applies to wireless networks using 4G and newer technology. Rollout for 2G, 3G and traditional fixed-line networks will be considered separately. The caller's number will still appear first, with their name shown in a second field. To make this work, each originating provider must maintain a database linking subscriber names to numbers, and the receiving operator will query it to display the name. Providers must also offer a Calling Line Identification Restriction facility, which lets users choose to hide their caller identity.

The Ministry of Communications is also urging providers to take a secure-by-design approach and protect the security of communications. Business and bulk connection users can choose a "preferred name" that replaces the standard calling name identity. The source excerpt does not list every detail of these requirements, so this article covers only the opening of the full report.