Daily News Analysis

Cell Broadcast (CB) system

stylish_lining

India is testing an indigenous Cell Broadcast (CB) system developed by C-DOT to deliver real-time alerts during natural and man-made disasters. The system complements SMS alerts by broadcasting messages to mobile users in affected areas instantly. It’s based on the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) and is already active in all 36 States/UTs via the SACHET platform. Test messages in English and Hindi will be sent over the next 2–4 weeks; no action is needed by recipients

What is Cell Broadcast System for Disaster Alerts in India

  • The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) are testing an indigenous Cell Broadcast (CB) system developed by Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT).It is a technology used by mobile network operators to send text messages simultaneously to all mobile users in a specific geographic area.

    It aims to deliver real-time, geo-targeted emergency alerts during disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, lightning strikes, and industrial hazards.

Key Features:

  • CB technology broadcasts messages simultaneously to all mobile users in a specific geographical area.

    Faster and more reliable than SMS during network congestion.

    Supports multiple Indian languages, ensuring inclusive communication.

    Works alongside the existing Integrated Alert System (SACHET) which has sent over 6,899 crore SMS alerts across all 36 States and UTs.

    SACHET follows the Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) recommended by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Purpose:

  • Rapid Dissemination of Alerts: To broadcast emergency and critical information instantly to all mobile users within a specific geographical area.

    Disaster Management: To provide timely warnings during natural disasters (earthquakes, tsunamis, cyclones, lightning strikes) and man-made emergencies (chemical leaks, industrial hazards).

    Enhance Public Safety: To ensure citizens receive alerts promptly to take necessary precautions and reduce casualties and damages.

    Overcome Network Congestion: Unlike SMS, Cell Broadcast sends messages simultaneously to many users without overloading the network.

Significance:

  • Real-time Communication: Enables near-instantaneous transmission of alerts to targeted regions.

    Geographical Targeting: Alerts reach only those in the affected area, minimizing unnecessary panic elsewhere.

    Multilingual Support: Broadcasts messages in multiple Indian languages, making communication inclusive.

    Indigenous Development: Developed by India’s C-DOT, ensuring control, security, and customization to local needs.

    Complementary to Existing Systems: Works alongside SMS-based systems like SACHET to strengthen the country’s disaster response infrastructure.

    Network Efficiency: Broadcast mode avoids delays and message failures common in congested networks, especially during emergencies.


 

Collegium System of Judicial Appointments in India

The Collegium system refers to India's judicial process for appointing and transferring judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts. While the system plays a crucial role in maintaining judici
Share It

Sea-Level Rise

Coral micro-atolls are essential natural recorders of sea-level rise (SLR), offering valuable insights into past and present oceanic changes. These disk-shaped coral colonies provide a unique meth
Share It

India’s Strategy in the Indian Ocean

Why the Indian Ocean Matters: Strategic Importance: The Indian Ocean is the third-largest ocean in the world, hosting 1/3rd of the global population and acting as a crucial maritime trade
Share It

ASEAN Centrality

Why in the News? ASEAN’s central role in the Indo-Pacific is increasingly under strain due to rising great-power rivalry, shifting global trade dynamics, and the evolving regional order.
Share It

2025 SCO Summit in Tianjin

The 25th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit held in Tianjin, China in 2025 brought together the heads of state of member countries to address a broad spectrum of issues, including secu
Share It

India’s Carbon Emissions Trading System

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has made a significant stride in India’s climate strategy by setting up the National Designated Authority (NDA) to implement a
Share It

Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025

The Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2025 was introduced in the Lok Sabha to amend various provisions across several central acts with the goal of decriminalizing offences and promoting
Share It

Fair and Representative Global Order

India’s External Affairs Minister recently called for a fair and representative global order during the BIMSTEC Traditional Music Festival. The statement highlights the growing need for reforms
Share It

India's First EMI-Based Credit Card

Recently, Unity Small Finance Bank and BharatPe launched India's first EMI-driven credit card on the RuPay network. This innovative product allows users to pay for their purchases in full or c
Share It

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)

Why in News? Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have gained prominence for their vital role in promoting collective action, protecting rights, and filling gaps in governance. They serve as cata
Share It

Newsletter Subscription


ACQ IAS
ACQ IAS