Features of Sandes App That Make It Suitable for Government Communications
The Maharashtra government has recently mandated the use of the Sandes app for all official communications among its employees. Launched by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) in 2021, Sandes is an indigenously developed instant messaging platform aimed at enhancing the safety and security of government operations.
Why Sandes?
Sandes, akin to WhatsApp, supports various forms of communication for anyone with a mobile number or email address. Developed as part of the Digital India programme, it aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign, emphasizing self-reliance. Here are some key features that make Sandes a fitting choice for government communications:
Enhanced Security
One of the primary reasons for adopting Sandes is its robust security framework. Managed by the Government of India, the app comes equipped with advanced security measures to prevent unauthorized access and ensure data privacy. This makes it a reliable choice for the transmission of sensitive information typically involved in government operations.
Tailored for Government Needs
According to the General Administration Department (GAD) of Maharashtra, Sandes can be tailored to suit specific governmental requirements. This includes the formation of groups, targeted messaging, and receipt notifications. These features ensure smooth and efficient communication across various departments and organizations.
Multifunctional Messaging Features
Sandes offers a variety of messaging features comparable to those found in popular instant messaging apps. These include:
- Group Chats: Allows for the creation of groups to streamline communication among team members.
- Receipt Notifications: Confirms when a message has been delivered and read, ensuring important communications are acknowledged.
- Emojis: Adds a layer of expressiveness to the messages, making communication more engaging.
Exclusive for Official Use
The Maharashtra government has instructed that Sandes is to be used exclusively for official communications. This decision aims to eliminate the risks associated with using private messaging apps for official matters, thus improving the overall security and integrity of government communications.
Integrated with E-governance Applications
Sandes is not just a standalone messaging app; it is integrated with over 350 e-governance applications. This integration facilitates the sending of messages, directions, and one-time passwords (OTPs), thereby making it a vital tool for effective governance.
Efficient Onboarding Process
The Maharashtra government has made the onboarding process for its employees straightforward. Departments are required to download onboarding forms from the Sandes official website and coordinate with Sandes system administrators to complete the setup. This ensures a seamless transition to the new platform.
Non-Shareable Messages
Another noteworthy feature of Sandes is the ability to mark messages as non-shareable. This ensures that critical information remains within the intended recipients, adding an extra layer of security to sensitive communications.
Developed in Response to the Pandemic
The idea of a secure communication network for government employees has been in development for several years, but its implementation gained urgency during the Covid-19 pandemic. The need for secure and efficient communication became more critical than ever, propelling the adoption of Sandes across various governmental levels.
Conclusion
The Sandes app, with its comprehensive set of features tailored for government use, is set to revolutionize the way governmental departments in Maharashtra communicate. Its robust security measures, multifunctional messaging capabilities, and exclusive use policies make it a highly suitable choice for official communications. As more departments transition to Sandes, we can expect a significant improvement in the safety, efficiency, and reliability of government communications in Maharashtra.
Mehek