The Indian government is actively assessing the feasibility of a nationwide SIM card replacement program as part of broader efforts to enhance digital and telecom security. Authorities are currently evaluating the scale of the issue and may soon introduce detailed guidelines on the rollout. The move, if executed, could impact millions of mobile users still operating with SIM cards issued years ago.
The initiative is part of a larger investigation led by the National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC), following concerns about the security risks posed by chipsets embedded in SIM cards reportedly sourced from Chinese vendors. According to a report by Mint, the Ministry of Home Affairs has raised red flags over the potential misuse of personal information due to these chipsets.
“The investigation is being done collectively under NCSC involving DoT, MHA, and other stakeholders to identify the entry of such chips in the market and the extent of SIM cards with chips of Chinese origin. It seems even telecos were not aware of the procurement by their vendors,” the Mint reported, citing official sources.
As part of this investigation, the government is exploring technological and legal hurdles that may arise if the replacement plan is greenlit. Key telecom operators, including Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel, and Reliance Jio, have reportedly been consulted to discuss possible security loopholes that may surface during the swap process.
In addition to SIM replacement, authorities are also looking to tighten import controls on telecom equipment. Only suppliers from vetted, reliable sources may be allowed to contribute to India's telecom infrastructure moving forward.
Legal Framework Supporting the Move
The Telecommunications Act of 2023 provides the government with the authority to restrict, suspend, or ban telecom equipment or services if they are found to pose a threat to national security.
“Procurement of telecommunication equipment and telecommunication services only from trusted sources,” Section 21 of the Telecom Act, 2023 states.
Before this legislation, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had already implemented licensing rules that factored in defence and national security considerations when sourcing telecom hardware. Under these rules, telecom service providers are permitted to buy only from "trusted sources" and must seek prior approval from the National Cyber Security Coordinator.