The Indian Army has announced that it has created its messaging app to protect critical internal communications. The Secure Internet Application, or SAI, as it's called, will come with end-to-end encryption, offer voice and video calls, as well as allow security personnel to exchange text messages. As per the official release, this app is just like WhatsApp or Telegram and is currently available for Android with the iOS app still under development. Looking at the critical data this app could carry, it has been certified by the Army Cyber Group and a CERT-in commissioned auditor. Unlike the most widely used email platforms whose servers are located outside the country, SAI's servers will be hosted by NIC to ensure that all data remains in the country. It also means that custom features can be designed according to the needs of the armed forces.
What is the need for SAI (Secure Internet Application)?
The creation of the SAI application is strategically important for the armed forces. The military had repeatedly instructed its personnel not to use foreign applications because their servers were not hosted in the country. Recently, the military had asked all personnel to remove apps like Facebook, Instagram, TrueCaller, etc., except for the 59 Chinese apps which included social media apps, e-commerce, camera apps, browsers, etc. The military also asked the officers to limit the use of WhatsApp for official communications citing various reasons like honey traps, espionage, etc., which led to sharing sensitive information with people. Not allowed. The military had announced that it would take strict action against people still using these apps. The ongoing Indochinese tension also meant that the use of many apps had to be restricted. At the same time, the Indian Prime Minister called for the creation of local infrastructure and applications, thus wanting to use the resources internally. The call to become an Atmanirbhar (independent) has seen a rise on various apps and local social media platforms. With data being the new fuel and most wars will be fought without many bullets being fired, the security of sensitive data has become the top priority. However, other projects like Aarogya Setu and Aadhar have come under scrutiny due to various shortcomings. Hopefully, with the ISC, the authorities have ensured that all protocols are followed or else it could be an extremely embarrassing situation for the country.