Posted On: 20 NOV 2025 10:06PM by PIB Chennai
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched and expanded several citizen-centric digital initiatives aimed at strengthening mobile security, preventing telecom-related fraud, and promoting safe and responsible digital usage. As part of its ongoing efforts, new features have been added to the Sanchar Saathi platform to enhance user convenience and safety.
1. Sanchar Saathi – Empowering Mobile Subscribers
Sanchar Saathi, a mobile application and web portal (www.sancharsaathi.gov.in), is a flagship initiative of the DoT designed to empower consumers and ensure digital safety. The platform currently offers the following key features:
- Chakshu: Facility to report suspected fraud communications and unsolicited commercial calls/SMS.
- Block Lost/Stolen Phones: Enables blocking of lost or stolen mobile phones to prevent misuse.
- Check Mobile Connections: Allows users to identify unauthorised mobile numbers issued using their identity documents.
- Verify Handset Authenticity: Check the genuineness of a mobile handset using IMEI details.
- Report International Calls Displaying Indian Numbers (Spoofing): Helps curb fraudulent international calls masked with Indian caller IDs.
- Know Your Wireline ISP: Enables users to identify nearby wireline Internet Service Providers based on PIN code.
- Trusted Contacts (New Feature): Provides contact details of banks and financial institutions to help users verify the authenticity of communications.
2. Sanchar Mitra Initiative
Under the Sanchar Mitra Scheme (Program 2.0), the Government of India promotes digital literacy, cyber safety, and public awareness on telecom services through student volunteers. Under this initiative, seven students from DBRAIT, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, have been appointed as Sanchar Mitras.
These Sanchar Mitras will actively create awareness among the public on:
- The Sanchar Saathi portal and its features
- EMF/EMR radiation safety guidelines
- Cyber security and responsible digital practices
Progress in Andaman & Nicobar Islands
To date, 1,399 mobile phones have been blocked through Sanchar Saathi/CEIR, and 513 lost or stolen mobile phones have been successfully recovered across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Public Advisory
All mobile users are encouraged to download and actively use the Sanchar Saathi mobile application and spread awareness among friends and family. Users are urged to make full use of its services—checking all mobile connections registered in their name, blocking lost or stolen phones, and reporting fraudulent or suspicious communications using the Chakshu feature.
