The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued directions requiring all mobile handsets manufactured or imported for use in India to come with the Sanchar Saathi app pre-installed. The directive, dated 28 November 2025, aims to prevent the sale of non-genuine devices, simplify reporting of telecom misuse, and enhance cybersecurity.
Key directives to mobile manufacturers and importers
- All devices manufactured or imported for India must have the Sanchar Saathi app pre-installed.
- The app must be visible and accessible during first-time setup, with no restriction on features.
- For devices already manufactured and in sales channels, manufacturers must attempt to deliver the app via software updates.
- Implementation must be completed within 90 days, and a compliance report submitted within 120 days.
Purpose of the mandate
The DoT stated that the directive is aimed at curbing misuse of telecom resources for cyber fraud and strengthening telecom cybersecurity under the Telecom Cyber Security (TCS) Rules. These rules empower the government to direct telecommunication equipment manufacturers with IMEI identifiers and mandate compliance for security enforcement.
Sanchar Saathi initiative
Sanchar Saathi—available as a mobile app and web portal—offers:
- IMEI-based verification to check handset genuineness
- Reporting of suspected telecom fraud
- Reporting of lost or stolen mobile phones
- Checking active mobile connections linked to a user’s identity
- Access to trusted contact details of banks and financial institutions
Concerns around spoofed and duplicate IMEIs
The DoT highlighted that spoofed or tampered IMEIs pose a serious threat to telecom cyber security. Instances have been reported where the same IMEI operates across multiple devices simultaneously, complicating investigation and enforcement. India’s large second-hand smartphone market has also seen stolen or blacklisted devices being resold, exposing buyers to legal and financial risks. Such IMEIs can be verified using the Sanchar Saathi app.
Minister’s remarks
Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Minister of Communications, highlighted the importance of pre-installing the Sanchar Saathi app for consumer security. He noted that over the past few years, with a “Jan Bhagidari approach,” consumers have actively participated in protecting themselves, contributing to the success of the initiative.
He explained that the app allows a lost phone to “immediately register” and prevent usage by fraudulent individuals, helping users locate lost devices more quickly. The portal has already enabled tracing of nearly seven and a half lakh phones and recovery of about six-and-a-half lakh devices.
On mandatory compliance, the Minister stated that the directions will be issued soon, giving manufacturers and users time to “adopt” the app. He emphasized that the initiative provides consumers a practical step to protect themselves while reinforcing overall telecom cyber security.
The Sanchar Saathi app is available on Android, iOS, and through the web portal for availing its various services.