New Delhi, Dec. 2 -- The government has directed all smartphone-makers such as Apple, Samsung, Oppo, Xiaomi and Vivo to pre-install Sanchar Saathi app on all handsets being manufactured or imported in India.

Developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), the Sanchar Saathi App enables citizens to check genuineness of a mobile handset through the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number along with other facilities like reporting suspected fraud calls.

The DoT has issued detailed directions in this regard, mandating the manufacturer and importers of mobile handsets to pre-install the App in all handsets intended for use in India.

The DoT has asked Smartphone makers and importers to implement the order in 90 days an...