India to get official caller ID soon, TRAI approves plan to show real names on incoming calls

India’s Telecom Regulatory Authority (TRAI) has approved a Department of Telecommunications (DoT) proposal for Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), enabling phones to display verified caller names on incoming calls by default.​

CNAP pulls names directly from telecom operators’ subscriber databases, linked to KYC details at SIM registration, making it a native, government-backed system without needing apps like Truecaller or internet access. Users can opt out via their service provider, and it excludes those with Calling Line Identification Restriction (CLIR) for privacy. The feature targets spam and fraud reduction by showing authentic identities before answering.​

Telecom operators must build Calling Name (CNAM) databases mapping numbers to verified names, working across 4G/5G networks initially due to 2G/3G limitations. Trials confirmed feasibility on packet-switched networks, with full rollout requiring device updates post-notification. New devices sold after a cut-off (e.g., six months from notification) must support CNAP.​

Approval came in late October 2025, with backend preparations underway and potential nationwide launch by March 2026. This positions India for one of the world’s largest verified caller ID systems, boosting trust amid rising scams.