Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Launches India-Made Arattai App to Challenge WhatsApp—Check Key Features

In a major push for homegrown technology, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has unveiled Arattai, an India-developed instant messaging app positioned as a strong alternative to WhatsApp. The launch aligns with the government’s wider “vocal for local” and Make in India campaigns, encouraging citizens to adopt indigenous digital platforms and reduce dependence on global tech giants.

A Proudly Indian Innovation

Arattai, which means “informal chat” in Tamil, has been created by Chennai-based Zoho Corporation, one of India’s leading software companies. Praising the platform, Pradhan described it as “free, easy to use, secure, and made in India.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he urged users to support domestic technology:

“@Zoho’s Arattai instant messaging app is free, user-friendly, secure, and proudly Indian. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for self-reliance, I appeal to everyone to stay connected with friends and family using Indian apps.”

Features That Stand Out

Arattai aims to deliver a smooth messaging experience while highlighting India’s growing tech capabilities. Some of its key features include:

• Private and Group Chats: Users can send text messages, photos, videos, and documents seamlessly.

• Voice and Video Calls: The app supports high-quality voice and video calling with end-to-end encryption for calls.

• Stories and Broadcast Channels: Similar to popular social apps, Arattai lets users share updates or run broadcast channels to reach a wider audience.

• Business Tools: Designed for both personal and professional use, it offers tools that help businesses engage followers and host discussions.

Privacy and Security

While Arattai provides end-to-end encryption for voice and video calls, it currently does not offer the same level of encryption for text messages—a feature that WhatsApp provides by default. This difference could be a deciding factor for privacy-focused users. Zoho has stated, however, that user data remains secure and protected within India.

Why the Buzz?

The app’s rise in popularity gained momentum after Pradhan’s endorsement and the government’s call to embrace Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) products. Earlier, IT and Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also highlighted Zoho’s suite of tools, even showcasing a government presentation made using Zoho Show instead of Microsoft PowerPoint.

A Growing Trend of Local Alternatives

Arattai’s introduction reflects a larger trend of Indian startups creating domestic versions of global apps. With increasing concerns over data privacy and foreign control of digital platforms, many users are exploring Indian-made alternatives that promise security, reliability, and compliance with local regulations.

The Road Ahead

Arattai’s success will depend on user adoption and its ability to match or exceed the convenience offered by established players like WhatsApp. For now, the app represents a significant step in India’s journey toward digital independence—combining cultural identity with cutting-edge technology to give users a credible, homegrown choice in the competitive messaging market.