Ministry of Communications has launched the indigenous Cell Broadcast System

¨     The Ministry of Communications has launched the indigenous Cell Broadcast System (CBS).

¨     It is a major step towards transforming India’s disaster management framework from a reactive to a proactive approach.

¨     The system has already been used in Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Uttarakhand during disasters and events such as the Char Dham Yatra.

What is CBS?

¨     CBS is a technology that sends short alert messages simultaneously to millions of mobile phones within a specific geographical area.

¨     It was developed in the early 1990s by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute.

¨     The technology was first demonstrated in Paris in 1997.

¨     India currently uses an SMS-based alert system across all states and Union Territories.

Key Features

¨     CBS is integrated with the CAP-based SACHET platform.

¨     Alerts can be delivered without requiring mobile numbers or internet connectivity.

¨     It provides real-time warnings during disasters such as flash floods, tsunamis, and gas leaks.

¨     Messages can override silent and Do-Not-Disturb modes.

¨     Alerts include sirens, vibrations, and pop-up notifications.

¨     Messages are available in English, Hindi, and regional languages.