Why does every Indian number start with +91? Everything changed from 2G to 5G, but this code remains.

Have you ever wondered why every Indian mobile number starts with +91? Regardless of your network company—Jio, Airtel, BSNL, or Vi—this code appears first in all numbers.

Mobile Number: Have you ever wondered why every Indian mobile number starts with +91? Regardless of your network company—Jio, Airtel, BSNL, or Vi—this code appears first in all numbers. But where did this +91 come from, and why has it never changed, despite the tremendous changes in mobile technology from 2G to 5G? Let's find out the full story behind this mysterious code.

International Identification Code

Actually, +91 is India's country code. Whenever a foreigner calls India, they must prefix the number with +91. This code indicates that the call is going to India. For example, the code used is +1 for the US, +44 for the UK, and +81 for Japan. Thus, each country has its own unique identity.

Began in the 1970s

India was assigned the +91 code by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in the 1970s. At that time, countries around the world were assigned codes based on their population and geographical location. Asian countries were assigned codes starting with 9, and India received 91. This code has remained a part of our mobile network ever since.

Network Changed From 2G to 5G, Code Remains Unchanged

Over time, India's mobile technology has made great leaps, from the slow 2G network to the superfast internet speeds of 5G. However, +91 has never been changed during this journey because it is not only India's identity but also a permanent and internationally recognized code. Changing it would have meant resetting the entire telecom system, which is extremely complex and expensive.

Not Just a Number, It's an Identity

Today, +91 is not just a code, but has become India's digital identity. When someone abroad sees a call beginning with +91, they immediately understand it's from India. This short code, in turn, embodies the entire country's global presence. So, the next time you see +91 in a number, remember that it's not just a few digits, but a symbol of India's technological heritage and digital identity.