What is Sachet app? PM Modi backs critical disaster management tool; it features explained

In the 121st episode of his monthly Mann Ki Baat address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday promoted the Sachet app, which is the country's real time disaster alert system. This app can be a real game-changer, considering the unprecedented weather conditions we are facing.

The app was launched by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Telematics (c-DOT). It provides real-time, geo-targeted disaster alerts that gives warnings to the citizens about upcoming disasters.

What is Sachet app?

Sachet app will provide alerts for both natural and man-made disasters across the country, including floods, cyclones, earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis, avalanches, forest fires, heatwaves and cold waves. Sachet follows the Common Alerting Protocol that allows authorised government agencies to provide valid alerts to the public. The app also provides frequent updates on the current weather reports which are forecast by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

How does the app function?

The Sachet app uses your phone's GPS location and hence it is always advisable to enable your phone’s location. The app sends a notification SMS to your phone when disasters occur in your locality or your subscribed state or district. Browser notification is also provided on laptops/desktop browsers. The app also provides safety instructions, including the dos and don’ts, emergency contact numbers and satellite receiver connectivity feature. The app also supports 12 Indian languages that make sure people from different regions can easily understand the warnings. Translation and read-out facilities are also available in the app.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi promoted the Sachet app during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme, urging citizens to utilise it for improving their safety. He stressed that receiving early alerts during emergencies can be very crucial in saving lives. The app can be downloaded from Google Play store and Apple App Store.

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