Sanchar Saathi App & Telecom Reforms

In News: Sanchar Saathi App & Telecom Reforms 

Context

Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia launched three major citizen-centric telecom initiatives:

1. Sanchar Saathi Mobile App
2. National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0
3. Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) at DBN-funded 4G sites

These initiatives aim to strengthen telecom security, rural digital connectivity, and infrastructure sharing among operators.

About Sanchar Saathi App

Developed by: Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications

Platforms: Android & iOS

 Key Features

1. Chakshu – Report Suspected Fraud Communications (calls/SMS).
2. Know Mobile Connections in Your Name – Identify all SIMs linked to your Aadhaar/name.
3. Block Lost/Stolen Mobile Phones – Enable swift blocking and tracing through CEIR (Central Equipment Identity Register).
4. Check Mobile Handset Genuineness – Verify IMEI authenticity before purchase.

Objective

To empower citizens against telecom frauds and enhance security, trust, and transparency in telecom usage.

Relevance

• Over 90 crore smartphone users in India.
• Supports Digital India and Cyber Suraksha missions.

 National Broadband Mission (NBM) 2.0

Builds on: NBM 1.0 (launched in 2019)

Achievements under NBM 1.0

• Nearly 8 lakh telecom towers established.
• Broadband subscriptions rose from 66 crore to 94 crore.

 Goals of NBM 2.0

• Connect remaining 1.7 lakh villages.
• Ensure 60% rural household broadband penetration.
• Guarantee minimum 100 Mbps fixed broadband speed.
• Strengthen digital infrastructure for rural India.

 Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN)

(Formerly Universal Service Obligation Fund – USOF)

Role

• Funds telecom towers in rural, remote & underserved regions.
• Bridges the urban-rural telecom divide.

Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) Initiative

• Implemented at 27,836 DBN-funded 4G sites.
• BSNL, Airtel, and Reliance Jio to share infrastructure.
• Enables subscribers of any TSP to use DBN-funded towers, improving coverage & efficiency.

 Significance

• Strengthens telecom security (fraud prevention).
• Promotes Digital Inclusion & Rural Connectivity.
• Encourages infrastructure sharing and cost efficiency.
• Supports Vision of Digital Bharat & Viksit Bharat 2047.
  
  Updated - 17 Jan 2025 ;  3: 59 PM  | ANI