As the frequency of ransomware attacks targeting Indian defense digital infrastructure continues to rise, the administration under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has taken a decisive step. The government has chosen to replace all Microsoft systems with a domestically developed operating system known as Maya OS.
With this significant stride, India becomes the second country globally, after Russia, to undertake the replacement of operating systems across all devices. The rationale behind this move is to counteract the escalating malware and DDoS attacks that aim not only to disrupt operations but also to pilfer critical information from the compromised systems.
Maya OS, conceptualized and crafted by the Union Ministry of Defense in early 2022, is geared toward safeguarding computing devices against a spectrum of cyber threats. At its core, Maya OS is built upon an open-source Ubuntu (Linux) foundation, fortified with robust security features. Remarkably akin to the functionality of Windows, Maya OS ensures a seamless transition for all users.
A standout feature of Maya OS is its integration with an advanced edge security software called Chakravuh. This software operates as a vigilant monitoring solution, effectively countering malware and providing a protective shield against espionage attempts.
Informed sources reveal that Maya OS boasts compatibility with popular applications such as MS Office, Adobe Photoshop, and AutoCAD. This inherent flexibility allows it to seamlessly integrate with existing applications, meeting the demands of the current ecosystem.
A defense contractor based in New Delhi, the capital city of India, divulged that the plan entails replacing Microsoft systems with Maya OS by the conclusion of the current year. Subsequently, the government aims to pivot its focus over the next three years to encompass all centrally managed systems at the government level.
Given that India stands as the most populous country globally, where smartphones and laptops have become indispensable facets of daily life, the undertaking of transitioning millions of Microsoft-operated devices poses a formidable challenge. However, this monumental task is envisioned to be realized over the next decade with strategic execution.
As for the implications for the company led by Satya Nadella, it is important to note that the aforementioned developments remain in their infancy and are anticipated to undergo a protracted transition period.
It’s worth noting that Russia and China have already taken strides in a similar direction. Both nations have enacted bans on the use of Apple iPhones and Microsoft-powered devices within their borders. These countries are progressively advancing toward a 2026 deadline, by which a majority of the computers within their jurisdictions will operate on domestically developed software and applications.
