KATHMANDU, JULY 1

Ncell is set to introduce new mobile numbers starting with the 971 prefix, following approval from the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA). The telecom company announced that it is preparing to distribute SIM cards with the new range by July 31.

The NTA granted permission for the new number series on May 28, 2025, after the existing ranges-980, 981, 982, and 970-neared full capacity. The allocation of the 971 range falls under the NTA's National Numbering Allocation Plan, which ensures efficient use of mobile numbering resources in line with growing demand.

Mobile numbers have become essential for more than just telecommunications, now playing a key role in digital services such as receiving One-Time Passwords (OTPs), signing up for mobile applications, web-based services, and conducting digital financial transactions.

Ncell has urged all service providers, government bodies, private sector companies, banks, and financial institutions to update their systems to integrate the new 971 range, ensuring uninterrupted service and system compatibility for customers.