Explained | Maya OS that will replace Windows on Defence Ministry computers

The development of Maya OS started in 2021 after India faced several cyberattacks from foreign actors that targeted its critical infrastructure and defence systems. The Defence Ministry decided to replace Microsoft Windows with a locally built OS that would be more secure and reliable. A team of experts from various government agencies, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), and the National Informatics Centre (NIC), worked on developing Maya OS based on the open-source Ubuntu platform. The team also collaborated with Indian software companies and academic institutions to test and improve the OS. The OS was developed in six months, according to people in the know.

Ubuntu is a popular operating system that runs on computers, servers, and other devices. It is based on Linux, which is free and open-source software that anyone can use and modify. Ubuntu is designed to be easy to use, secure, and customisable. It comes with many applications for work, entertainment, and education. Users can also download thousands of other applications from the Ubuntu Software Centre. Ubuntu is updated regularly with new features and security fixes. Users can download Ubuntu for free from its official website

Maya OS is named after the ancient Indian concept of illusion, which refers to the deceptive appearance of reality. The name reflects the idea that hackers will be faced with maya or illusion when they try to hack into Defence Ministry computer systems. Maya OS also draws inspiration from the ancient Indian art of warfare, as it uses a feature called Chakravyuh, which is a multi-layered defensive formation that was used in the epic Mahabharata. Chakravyuh is an end-point anti-malware and antivirus software that creates a virtual layer between the user and the internet, blocking any malicious attempts to access or compromise the data.

Maya OS is designed to provide a user-friendly and familiar interface for its users, as it mimics the look and feel of Windows. It also supports various applications and software that are commonly used by the Defence Ministry, such as Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, AutoCAD, etc. Maya OS also offers features such as cloud storage, encryption, digital signature, biometric authentication, etc. that would enhance its security and functionality.

Maya OS is expected to be installed in all the computers of the Defence Ministry by the end of this year, replacing Microsoft Windows OS. The Defence Ministry has said that Maya OS will not only improve its cybersecurity but also reduce its dependence on foreign software and promote indigenous innovation. The Defence Ministry has also said that Maya OS will soon be adopted by the other branches of the Indian armed forces, such as the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as they have already vetted and evaluated the OS.