India Reverses Mandate for Pre-Installed Cybersecurity App

The Indian government has withdrawn its order requiring smartphone manufacturers to pre-install a state-backed cybersecurity application on new devices. In a recent statement, the Ministry of Communications announced the decision. It said authorities have decided "not to make the pre-installation mandatory for mobile manufacturers." The app, called "Cyber Surakshit Bharat," was designed to improve digital safety for users. The initial mandate had raised concerns among industry groups and digital rights advocates about privacy and market competition. The reversal means companies can now choose whether to include the app on phones sold in India. The government has not stated if it will promote voluntary installation of the software instead.