How Did Sanchar Saathi Recover Over 50,000 Stolen Phones in October?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Over 50,000 stolen phones recovered in October 2025.
- Top states: Karnataka and Telangana with 1 lakh recoveries each.
- Overall recoveries have surpassed 7 lakh.
- 47% increase in recoveries from June to October.
- Technology enhances recovery efficiency and prevents misuse.
New Delhi, Nov 25 (NationPress) The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) revealed on Tuesday that its digital safety initiative, Sanchar Saathi, has successfully facilitated the recovery of over 50,000 lost and stolen mobile devices throughout India in the month of October this year.
“This remarkable achievement showcases our steadfast dedication to safeguarding citizens’ digital assets and the public’s confidence in technology-driven governance. The cumulative recovery across the nation has now surpassed 7 lakh,” stated an official announcement.
Karnataka and Telangana have distinguished themselves as the leading states, each reporting more than 1 lakh recoveries, while Maharashtra follows closely with over 80,000.
The monthly recoveries of lost and stolen mobile phones have experienced a significant rise of 47 percent from June to October 2025, emphasizing the increasing efficiency and reach of the system. According to the statement, more than one device is being recovered every minute across the country.
At the heart of this accomplishment is a robust, domestically developed platform that integrates automated workflows and real-time device traceability. The advanced technology of Sanchar Saathi effectively prevents the misuse of blocked devices. When a SIM card is inserted into a reported device, the system sends alerts to both the registered user and the corresponding police station, thereby facilitating quicker and more efficient recoveries.
This success stems from seamless collaboration among police forces across states and union territories, the DoT's Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU), and field formations (LSAs), working in close coordination to ensure efficient tracing and return of devices to their rightful owners.
Regular capacity-building initiatives and partnerships with state and UT police forces have been pivotal in enhancing ground response and operational effectiveness, as noted in the statement.
The DoT has encouraged citizens to download the Sanchar Saathi app to not only report and block their lost or stolen mobile devices but also to verify the authenticity of new and used devices they wish to purchase. Users can also report suspected fraudulent calls and messages through this app and verify trusted contact details of banks and financial institutions.