‘Sanchar Saathi’ App Launched to Strengthen Telecom Security and Empower Citizens
In a significant step towards enhancing telecom accessibility, security, and digital empowerment, Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia launched the Sanchar Saathi Mobile App, alongside other key initiatives, on Friday. The event also marked the unveiling of National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0 and the inauguration of Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) at DBN-funded 4G mobile sites.
Sanchar Saathi App: Empowering Citizens with Telecom Security
The Sanchar Saathi Mobile App is designed as a user-friendly tool to ensure telecom safety and combat fraud. Available for Android and iOS, the app provides essential services to over 90 crore smartphone users in India.
Key Features of the App:
- Chakshu – Reporting Suspected Fraud Communications (SFC):
- Enables users to report suspicious calls or SMS directly from their phone logs.
- Manage Mobile Connections:
- Allows citizens to identify and manage all mobile connections issued in their name, preventing unauthorized usage.
- Block Lost or Stolen Mobile Devices:
- Users can swiftly block and trace lost or stolen mobile phones.
- Verify Mobile Handset Authenticity:
- Ensures consumers purchase genuine devices by checking handset authenticity.
Highlighting the app’s significance, Scindia stated, “This initiative not only opens up opportunities but also guarantees a secure telecom environment for every citizen.”
National Broadband Mission 2.0: Expanding Connectivity
The National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0, unveiled during the event, builds on the success of NBM 1.0, which facilitated the installation of nearly 8 lakh telecom towers across India.
Key Objectives of NBM 2.0:
- Connecting Rural Areas:
- Aims to provide broadband access to the remaining 1.7 lakh villages.
- Enhancing Rural Connectivity:
- Targets 60% broadband penetration in rural households.
- Boosting Internet Speeds:
- Ensures a minimum fixed broadband download speed of 100 Mbps in rural areas.
Scindia remarked, “Broadband subscriptions have surged from 66 crore to 94 crore, forming the foundation for the launch of NBM 2.0. Our mission is to create a robust digital infrastructure for rural India.”
Intra Circle Roaming at DBN-Funded 4G Mobile Sites
In another landmark announcement, the Union Minister inaugurated Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) at DBN-funded 4G mobile sites. This initiative enables subscribers of different telecom service providers (TSPs) to access connectivity through DBN-funded towers.
Details of the ICR Initiative:
- Collaboration Among TSPs:
- BSNL, Airtel, and Reliance Jio are leveraging shared infrastructure to improve rural connectivity.
- Coverage Expansion:
- Nearly 27,836 DBN-funded sites will now provide multi-operator access, ensuring better coverage and freedom of choice for customers.
Scindia emphasized, “This collaboration ensures connectivity in the remotest areas, while empowering customers with greater flexibility and options.”
