MC EXCLUSIVE Operation Sindoor: Govt orders telcos to ensure disaster preparedness, tighten network security, safeguard border infrastructure

The recent cyber incidents have primarily involved distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks and attempts to deface Indian websites.

The government has directed all private and state-owned telecom operators to ensure disaster-level preparedness, maintain uninterrupted telecom connectivity nationwide, and coordinate closely with one another to guarantee seamless network operations.

In a meeting on May 7, telcos were also ordered to prepare and maintain an updated list of critical telecom infrastructure and installations, with a particular focus on border districts, to ensure their protection and continued functionality during emergencies.

“Special emphasis may be paid to ensure uninterrupted working of BTS locations within say 100 Kms. of the international border,” the Ministry of Communications’ disaster management division said in a May 7 letter to all telcos.

“In the light of the evolving security situation and the critical need to maintain seamless communication for national security and effective disaster response, it is imperative that all necessary measures are taken to ensure uninterrupted telecom connectivity, particularly to Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) at both State and District levels.

Accordingly, all concerned authorities are requested to issue directions to the Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) for the immediate implementation of the following,” the ministry said.

“Ensure all activities are carried out in strict adherence to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) 2020 for telecommunication services in disaster scenarios…This is to be treated as URGENT and necessary action must be taken without delay,” it said.

Moneycontrol has seen a copy of the letter.

The ministry has also directed LSA heads of DoT to Facilitate coordination with state Governments to ensure smooth logistical movement of telecom operators’ teams during emergencies, and to support efforts to safeguard critical telecom infrastructure from potential threats.

“On receipt of request from the Ministry of Defence, operation of desired communication facilities on immediate/specified days may be arranged without fail,” the ministry said in the letter.

The ministry has directed telcos to ensure sufficient reserves of diesel for generator (DG) sets to guarantee uninterrupted power supply to telecom infrastructure.

It has also directed telcos to strategically deploy reserve teams, including repair crews and critical spares, at key locations to enable rapid restoration of services when required.

Additionally, telcos have been directed to conduct comprehensive testing of communication equipment, media paths, and backup systems to confirm their operational readiness.

All telcos are also directed to test the Intra-Circle Roaming (ICR) facility to verify preparedness. “Where necessary, initiate requests to DDG (Disaster Management) for activation of ICR as per the prescribed policy.”

“There was a meeting between DoT officials and telcos…telcos were instructed to prepare their networks for disaster scenarios similar to those during cyclones or wartime. This includes testing standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to fuel supply, control rooms, and quick reaction teams,” an official privy to the discussion told Moneycontrol.

Another senior DoT official said all telcos have been told to remain vigilant. In terms of security protocols, they are already following everything but if required they can be asked to further beef up the security with more measures.

A top executive working with one of the private telcos said that security protocols are up to date and all telcos provide the compliance report every month to the DoT. “While SOPs are being ensured, no significant intervention on security level or network hardware level is needed,” the executive added.

Queries sent to Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea, BSNL and the DoT didn’t elicit any response.

The Indian government, through its nodal cyber agency, the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), has issued special directives to financial institutions and other critical sectors to bolster their cyber defences amid a spike in cyberattacks targeting Indian digital infrastructure. The urgency extends beyond government networks, with private industry also being drawn into rapid-response efforts to counter emerging threats.

CERT-In has issued advisories specifically to banks and other key sectors.