I would assume the term "missed call" is both obvious and universally implemented (as in phones show the message) but I could be wrong on that last part for a few places I guess.

True, I did think that - since it is a pretty obvious idea that anyone can think of - to use it as a signal to the called party, but was thinking more in terms of India being a less rich country (broadly), so more people may do it here to save money :), since, though it's only a little each time, it can add up if one calls people a lot. On the other hand, India nowadays has very cheap mobile rates compared to many other countries, I've read.

We call it 'ringing' in Hungary and it's a pretty common practice.

"Perdida" (from "llamada perdida") or "toque" (slang) in Spain.

In the (U.S.) amateur radio world, this has been referred to as a "one-ringer" for at least 25 years.

Interesting ...

squillo in italy ;)