Sanchar Saathi Enables Recovery of Over 50,000 Phones in October 2025
Police–DoT Coordination Achieves Over 7 Lakh Handset Recoveries Nationwide
Karnataka and Telangana Lead with Over 1 Lakh Recoveries Each
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has reported that its digital safety initiative, Sanchar Saathi, facilitated the recovery of more than 50,000 lost and stolen mobile handsets across India in October 2025. This marks the first time the monthly recoveries have reached this level. Overall, the nationwide recovery count has now exceeded 7 lakh handsets.
Karnataka and Telangana have emerged as the leading states, each achieving over 1 lakh recoveries. Maharashtra follows with more than 80,000 recoveries. Monthly recoveries have increased by 47 percent between June and October 2025, reflecting the expanding efficiency and reach of the system. On average, more than one handset is now recovered every minute across the country.
Technology and Processes Supporting Recovery
Sanchar Saathi is based on a robust, indigenously developed platform that integrates automated workflows and real-time device traceability. The system prevents misuse of blocked devices. When a SIM card is inserted into a reported handset, alerts are automatically sent to both the registered citizen and the relevant police station, enabling prompt recovery.
Collaboration and Operational Support
The recoveries have been made possible through close coordination between police personnel across states and union territories, DoT’s Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU), and field formations (LSAs). Regular capacity-building initiatives and partnerships with state and UT police forces have strengthened on-ground response and operational effectiveness.
Public Advisory and Citizen Engagement
DoT encourages citizens to download the Sanchar Saathi App to report and block lost or stolen devices. The app also allows users to verify the authenticity of new or used devices they intend to purchase, report suspected fraudulent calls or messages, and cross-check trusted contact information for banks and financial institutions.
Sanchar Saathi continues to support citizen protection and the safeguarding of digital assets, aligning with the Government’s Digital India vision. The program highlights the role of technology, police vigilance, and dedicated DoT teams in creating a secure, citizen-focused digital ecosystem.