India Defence Ministry to replace Microsoft OS with Maya

India Defence Ministry to replace Microsoft OS with Maya

Subject :Science and technology

Section: Awareness in IT

Background and Motivation

• Rising cyber and malware attacks on defense and critical infrastructure.
• The decision to replace Microsoft OS with indigenous “Maya” OS to counter threats.

Operating System:

• An operating system (OS) is software that manages computer hardware and provides a user interface for software interaction.
• Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.
• Ubuntu is a popular open-source operating system based on the Linux kernel.
  • It’s known for its user-friendly interface and community-driven development.

Cyber Threats:

• Malware: Harmful software that damages computer systems, e.g., viruses and ransomware.
• Phishing: Deceptive messages aiming to extract sensitive info or trigger malicious links.
• DoS (Denial of Service) Attacks: Flooding systems to disrupt availability through overwhelming traffic.
• Ransomware: Encrypts data and demands payment for release.
• Social Engineering: Manipulating people to share sensitive details.
• Hacking: Unauthorized access for data theft, modification, or disruption.
• Insider Threats: Data breaches by individuals within an organization.
• Malvertising: Distributing malware through online ads.
• Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to private information.
• IoT Vulnerabilities: Exploiting weak points in Internet of Things devices.

Maya Operating System: Seamless Transition

• Built on open-source Ubuntu, resembling Windows interface.
• Users are assured of minimal disruption during migration.

Chakravyuh: End-Point Detection and Protection

• Chakravyuh deployed alongside Maya OS.
• Designed to detect and prevent malware attacks.

Evaluation and Adoption by Armed Forces

• Indian Navy approves and adopts Maya OS.
• Indian Army and Air Force evaluating for future adoption.

Rapid Development of Maya OS

• Maya OS developed by government agencies in six months.
• Addresses escalating cyberattacks and malware incidents.

Implications and Future Outlook

• Maya OS adoption sets cybersecurity precedent.
• Encourages sectors to prioritize local, secure technologies.