SRINAGAR: The Union Government has directed all manufacturers and importers of mobile handsets intended for sale in India to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi application, citing enhanced telecom cyber security requirements. The order has been issued under the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024 (as amended), according to an official communication from the Ministry of Communications’ Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
The direction mandates that within 90 days, the Sanchar Saathi app must be pre-installed on all handsets manufactured or imported for use in India. The DoT said the move follows concerns over duplicate and spoofed International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, which pose a significant threat to telecom cyber security.
Officials said the order stems from provisions under Rule 8 and Rule 5 of the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, which prohibit tampering with telecom equipment identifiers and empower the Centre to issue directions to ensure the authenticity of IMEIs used in devices. The rules also permit the government to establish digital systems enabling the reporting and verification of suspicious activities related to mobile identifiers.
The DoT said manufacturers must ensure the pre-installed Sanchar Saathi app remains fully visible, accessible and functional for users during initial device setup. For devices already manufactured and present in sales channels, companies must push the app through software updates.
Manufacturers and importers have been instructed to submit compliance reports to the DoT within 120 days. The order warns that non-compliance will invite action under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024, and other applicable laws.
The directions come into immediate effect and will remain in force until amended or withdrawn by the DoT, the communication said. -(KL)
