Defence Ministry to Replace Microsoft Windows with OS Maya Amid Rising Cyberattacks

In a bid to bolster its cybersecurity defences and shield against the rising tide of cyber and malware attacks, the Defence Ministry of India is poised to transition from its current operating system to the indigenous OS Maya. This strategic move aims to fortify the country's critical infrastructure and defence systems against the mounting cyber threats that have become a growing concern.

With cyberattacks on defence systems and critical infrastructure on the rise, the Defence Ministry of India has taken decisive action to enhance its cybersecurity posture. The Ministry's decision to replace the current operating system with OS Maya is a proactive step towards safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring the integrity of critical systems.

The Dawn of OS Maya

Developed locally and based on the open-source Ubuntu platform, OS Maya promises to offer a familiar interface and seamless functionality akin to Windows. This transition is intended to be smooth and user-friendly, minimizing disruption during the shift from the existing Microsoft OS. An official from the Defence Ministry commented, "Maya has the interface and all functionality like Windows and users will not feel much difference as they transition to it."

Chakravyuh: A Robust Defense Mechanism

As part of this initiative, the installation of a specialized cybersecurity system known as "Chakravyuh" is also underway. This system will provide an advanced "endpoint detection and protection" capability, further bolstering the cybersecurity framework of the Defence Ministry's computers. The introduction of Chakravyuh demonstrates the Ministry's commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies to safeguard its digital assets.

Expansion of OS Maya Adoption

While initially confined to the computers within the Defence Ministry, there are indications that the other three branches of the Indian Armed Services are also considering adopting OS Maya. The Navy has already cleared the transition, and the Army and Air Force are currently evaluating the operating system's suitability for their systems. This widespread adoption underscores the significance of OS Maya's potential in strengthening the nation's cyber defences.

Remarkably, the development of OS Maya was achieved within a short span of six months by government agencies. This demonstrates the nation's capability to swiftly respond to emerging challenges and develop bespoke solutions tailored to its unique needs.

The Defence Ministry's decision to embrace the locally developed OS Maya marks a significant stride in India's cybersecurity landscape. By aligning its digital infrastructure with cutting-edge technology, the Ministry aims to thwart cyber threats and ensure the safety and integrity of critical defence systems. As the nation stands on the cusp of this technological transition, the future appears more secure and resilient against the evolving realm of cyber warfare.