Is India switching from Windows to Linux?
India is partway there in one sensitive area. In 2023 the Ministry of Defence directed internet-connected computers to move from Windows to Maya OS, an Ubuntu-based system developed by DRDO, C-DAC and NIC. Government-wide use of Linux is not mandated, and Windows remains the norm elsewhere.
- Announced
- Pilot
- Rolling out
- Widely deployed
Scope: Ministry of Defence internet-connected computers. Updated Oct 6, 2026.
What operating system does Indian government use?
- Maya OS
Ubuntu-based, with the Chakravyuh anti-malware layer.
- BOSS Linux
Debian-based distribution from C-DAC for Indian government use.
India’s Linux timeline
- Aug 2023
The Ministry of Defence directs internet-connected computers to move to Maya OS, citing cyber and malware attacks.
What is still unclear
This is a general picture, not a measurement.
- The directive covers the defence ministry, not the whole government.
- Public progress reports since 2023 are limited, so treat adoption levels as unknown.
Sources
India: common questions
Is India switching from Windows to Linux?
In defence, yes: the Ministry of Defence directed internet-connected computers to move to Maya OS, an Ubuntu-based system. There is no government-wide mandate.
What is Maya OS?
Maya is an Ubuntu-based operating system built by DRDO, C-DAC and NIC, with a Windows-like interface and a built-in anti-malware layer called Chakravyuh.
Other countries
Want to try it yourself? Read how to switch from Windows to Linux.