Sanchar Saathi App Made Mandatory on All New Smartphones: What It Is and Why the Government Wants It Installed

Sanchar Saathi App: In a major push to strengthen India’s digital security ecosystem, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has announced a significant policy move. The government has made it compulsory for every new smartphone—whether manufactured in India or imported—to come with the Sanchar Saathi app pre-installed. This rule applies to all major brands, including Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and other OEMs.

DoT issued an official directive on Monday, instructing mobile manufacturers and importers that the app must appear clearly during the phone setup process and should be fully accessible without any restrictions. Users should be able to open and use all features easily, and the app cannot be deleted from the device.

This decision has sparked curiosity among millions of mobile users: What exactly is the Sanchar Saathi app, and why is it becoming compulsory for all smartphone users?

Why This Rule Has Been Enforced

The government’s objective is clear — to protect citizens from digital fraud, mobile theft, and telecom-related scams. The DoT has asked smartphone companies to ensure that within the next 90 days, every new device rolling out in the market includes the Sanchar Saathi app by default.

For devices that are already manufactured or shipped, companies must deliver the app to users through a software update. This ensures full nationwide coverage without exceptions.

According to DoT, the move will:

• Help citizens avoid buying counterfeit or cloned phones

• Simplify the process of reporting telecom misuse

• Strengthen the government's Sanchar Saathi initiative

• Improve transparency around mobile connections

• Provide users with a verified and secure digital environment

What Is the Sanchar Saathi App?

Launched in May 2023, Sanchar Saathi is a government-backed digital security platform designed to empower mobile users with safety tools and transparency features. The app helps users report lost or stolen phones, block handset IMEI numbers, identify suspicious numbers, and access verified telecom details.

Originally introduced as a voluntary utility, the app has now become central to the nation's digital safety plan.

Key Features and Benefits for Users

The Sanchar Saathi app offers a wide range of security tools. Some of its most important features include:

1. Lost or Stolen Phone Reporting

Users can instantly report a missing device and request DoT to block the phone’s IMEI to prevent misuse.

2. Check All Mobile Numbers Registered Under Your Name

Through the “Know Your Mobile Connections” feature, users can easily find how many phone numbers are linked to their identity—helpful in detecting fraud or unauthorized SIM misuse.

3. Detect Fake or Cloned Phones

The app allows users to verify whether a device is genuine or counterfeit by cross-checking the IMEI details.

4. Report Fraud, Spam, or Suspicious Calls

Users can report unwanted or fraudulent calls and messages without complex verification steps.

5. Report International Calls from Indian Numbers

If an Indian number is being used to make suspicious international calls, users can register a complaint directly through the app.

No OTP Required

One of the app’s biggest advantages is that most services can be used without needing OTP verification, making it faster and easier for all age groups.

Sanchar Saathi Usage Data: How Big Is the Initiative?

The platform has gained massive traction in India since its launch. According to the official Sanchar Saathi portal:

• 42.14 lakh mobile phones have been blocked so far

• 26.11 lakh lost or stolen phones have been traced

• Over 288 lakh requests were submitted by people checking their registered mobile connections

• 254 lakh requests have already been resolved

The app’s user base is growing rapidly:

• 1.14 crore+ registered users

• 1 crore+ downloads on Google Play Store

• 9.5 lakh+ downloads on Apple App Store

These numbers clearly indicate strong public trust and widespread adoption across India.

A Major Step Toward a Safer Digital India

With rising cases of cyber fraud, SIM misuse, spam calls, and mobile theft, the government’s decision to mandate the Sanchar Saathi app aims to create a safer digital environment for every smartphone user. By integrating this tool directly into all new devices, India is moving toward a more transparent, secure, and accountable telecom ecosystem.