The Indian government is considering making the indigenous navigation app 'NavIC' in-built in every mobile phone to ensure that the location data of Indian users remains secure within the country. This app could be available alongside Google Maps or as an alternative to it, and is considered a significant step towards the nation's digital self-reliance.
Navigator App: The Indian government is soon considering formulating a rule under which the indigenous navigation app 'NavIC' will be pre-installed in every mobile phone. The objective of this plan is to ensure that the location and navigation data of Indian citizens does not go outside the country. Currently, discussions are ongoing regarding the possibility of integrating 'NavIC' with Google Maps or offering it as an alternative. This initiative is considered part of the government's broader strategy towards data security and technological self-reliance.
Government's Emphasis on Data Security
A senior official stated that the government's primary concern is the security of Indian data. Servers of many foreign apps, including Google, are located outside the country, which places Indian users' data under their control. This poses risks not only to privacy but also from a national security perspective.
For this reason, the government is promoting indigenous technologies. The plan to mandate 'NavIC' is also considered a major step in that direction. This system has been developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and rivals the global GPS system in terms of accuracy.
Expansion of 'Make in India' from Mobile to CCTV
The government is not limited to the navigation app alone. In the future, a rule is also being formulated for every server and chip to be manufactured in India. According to sources, preparations are underway to procure all chips used in CCTV cameras exclusively from Indian companies.
Furthermore, the email and document sharing systems of government ministries have been migrated from foreign software to the platform of the Indian company Zoho. The government states that when Indian companies are on par with foreign companies in terms of security standards, there is no need to send data outside the country.
Indigenous Systems to be Expanded in Railways and Other Departments Too
Sources indicate that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) may soon be signed with the 'MapmyIndia' company for navigation and location tracking in railways. The tender process for this has already been completed. The government aims to reduce dependence on foreign technology in the country's critical services.
The proposal to make 'NavIC' in-built in every mobile phone is a significant step towards India's digital sovereignty. If this plan is implemented, India can become self-reliant in its location and navigation technology.
