The WhatsApp alternative instant messaging app Sandes Government Instant Messaging App has arrived. It has been launched by the National Informatics Centre (NIC).
For now at least, this is restricted to government officials who can use their @gov.in email IDs to sign in. It requires a mobile number or government email ID for sign up. Once signed up, users can send and receive messages as well as new create groups or send multimedia content such as images and videos.
The app has not been listed on Google Play Store, however, those interested can download the APK file from the official website of the app.
Similar to WhatsApp and other major instant messaging apps, Sandes (which means message in Hindi) says it uses end-to-end encrypted communication. Users can also broadcast messages or set certain messages as their favourite.
Sources in the government also confirmed that a second app, called Samvad (which means conversation) is also in the works. “These apps are being developed completely by the government of India. It is going to be an instant messaging app like WhatsApp,” said a MeITY functionary.
How to sign up for Sandes app
You initially need to download the Sandes app on your mobile device. It is available for download in an APK file for smartphones running on Android 5.0 and above through the government’s GIMS portal. For iOS users, the app is available for download through the App Store and is compatible with the iPhone, iPad, and the iPod touch running on at least iOS 12.0.
Once downloaded, you can sign up using your mobile number or email ID. The app will send you a six-digit OTP for authentication. Email IDs are restricted to government IDs only — if you try to sign up with a Gmail, Hotmail, or other email account, you’ll see a notice that emails from that domain are not allowed. Even government-related accounts like @mygov.in accounts are not accepted — only official @gov.in emails can be used to register with the app. Otherwise, you have to use your phone number.
The Sandes app also doesn’t allow users to change their mobile number or email ID once signed up. This means that you’ll need to stick to your mobile number or email ID that you used for signing up to continue to use the app. Alternatively, you can delete your account with the and then create a new one with a different mobile number or email ID.
The government hasn’t yet provided any clarity on how it is planning to use Sandes. But nonetheless, given the features the app currently has and its scope being a government platform, it could be adopted by individuals against global messaging apps including WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal. The government is already asking its employees to use the Sandes app for their official communication. However, it is yet to gain popularity among the public.
