The DoT has required that every smartphone built or brought to India be pre-installed with the Sanchar Saathi app. The November 28, 2025, order mandates the device makers to make the app visible and operable on the first use, i.e. without disabling or hiding. The purpose of the move is to enhance telecom and cybersecurity by assisting in IMEI checking, fraud reporting, lost/stolen phone reporting, and monitoring bad telecom usage. The edict will provide manufacturers with 90 days to comply, which is a big move towards the protection of mobile users within the country.
Key Facts for Sanchar Saathi App
-
It is required to be pre-installed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) in all smartphones in India.
-
Targets to improve telecom and cybersecurity for mobile users.
-
Allows the IMEI check, report lost/stolen phones, and detect fraud.
-
The manufacturers should make sure that the app is visible, active and not disabled or hidden.
-
Within 90 days after the order compliance deadline is set.
-
Covers all new Smartphones produced or imported to India.
-
Swears to the suspicious telecom activity and guardian consumer interests.
-
Enhances the security of mobile devices and the government throughout the country.
Exam-Oriented Based PYQs
| Exam Name / Year | Question | Options | Answer |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSC CGL 2021 | What does DoT stand for? | A) Department of Technology B) Department of Telecommunications C) Department of Transport D) Department of Trade | B (Department of Telecommunications) |
| SSC CHSL 2020 | The DoT is under which Ministry of India? | A) Ministry of Home Affairs B) Ministry of Electronics and IT C) Ministry of Communications D) Ministry of Science & Technology | C (Ministry of Communications) |
| UPSC Prelims 2018 | One of the main functions of DoT is? | A) Regulate postal services B) Oversee telecom services C) Manage banking regulations D) Conduct elections | B (Oversee telecom services) |
| RRB Group D 2018 | The Department of Telecommunications was established in which year? | A) 1985 B) 1980 C) 1983 D) 2000 | B (1980) |
| SSC GD 2021 | What do the DOT functions include? | A) Regulating Internet service providers B) Issuing licenses to telecom operators C) Managing mobile numbering plans D) All of the above | D (All of the above) |
| UPSC Prelims 2019 | Who oversees the policies and regulations for telecommunications in India? | A) TRAI B) DoT C) ISRO D) DRDO | B (DoT) |
| Banking PO 2020 | Which organisation issues licenses to telecom operators in India? | A) TRAI B) DoT C) ISRO D) DRDO | B (DoT) |
| SSC CPO 2019 | DoT is responsible for which of the following? | A) Allocation of spectrum B) Telecom infrastructure development C) Monitoring quality of service D) All of the above | D (All of the above) |
| UPSC Prelims 2017 | DoT is responsible for regulating which sector? | A) Railways B) Telecommunications C) Banking D) Defence | B (Telecommunications) |
| RRB NTPC 2016 | The head of DoT is appointed by which authority? | A) President of India B) Prime Minister C) Ministry of Communications D) TRAI | C (Ministry of Communications) |
Conclusion
The DoT order requiring the installation of the Sanchaar Saathi app during the manufacture of a smartphone is an enhanced consumer protection and security of mobile phones in India. It allows the verification of IMEI, reporting fraud, and tracking of phone loss/stolen, which makes the use of telephones safer. This action strengthens the government's control and the adoption of responsible smartphone habits in the country.
