Incoming Calls Get a Makeover: India’s Telecoms to Deliver Verified Caller IDs by 2026

Updated: October 31, 2025 13:30

The Indian government is launching Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), a telecom network-based feature that displays verified caller names on incoming call screens by early 2026. This default caller ID service aims to enhance transparency, reduce spam and fraud calls, and enable users to make informed decisions before answering.

India is on the brink of a significant transformation in caller identification with the rollout of a new verified Caller ID system, called Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), jointly introduced by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). This network-level feature, expected to be available nationwide by March 2026, will display the real, verified name of callers on the recipient’s phone screen, even if the number is not saved in contacts.

Caller ID Transformation: Enhanced Transparency and Security

Unlike current systems that show only the caller's phone number, CNAP leverages telecom operators’ verified subscriber databases to match calls with the registered names of callers. This system, embedded directly into telecom networks, will eliminate the reliance on third-party apps like Truecaller. By showing authentic caller names linked to SIM registration data, CNAP will boost caller trust and reduce the incidence of fraudulent, spam, and scam calls proliferating across India.

Default Activation with Privacy Controls

The CNAP feature will be activated by default for all mobile users on 4G and 5G networks, with an opt-out option available for those concerned about privacy. Users who prefer not to display their names can request their telecom service providers to disable the feature. Notably, this system is expected to work primarily on modern mobile networks due to technical constraints and will not be immediately available on 2G.

Operational Mechanism and Technical Setup

Telecom operators are mandated to establish a Calling Name (CNAM) database mapping phone numbers to caller names validated through Know Your Customer (KYC) data during SIM registration. Incoming calls trigger a real-time lookup in this database by the terminating network provider, allowing instant display of the verified caller’s name on the recipient’s device. This network-centric approach ensures higher accuracy and accountability than current number-only displays.

Impact on Users and Telecom Ecosystem

The CNAP initiative is poised to become a game-changer for Indian telecom users by helping individuals identify unwanted calls more confidently, thereby decreasing unwanted interruptions and fraud risks. The introduction marks a crucial step aligned with global telecom standards aimed at safer and more transparent digital communication.

In summary, CNAP will revolutionize how calls are identified across India, fostering a caller ecosystem grounded in verification and trust, empowering users with the knowledge to avoid scams and spam effectively.

Sources: Hindustan Times, India Today, CNBC TV18, NDTV, Economic Times, Patrika, India TV News

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