1. Overview & Data Controller
Sikhi Connect (“we”, “our”, or “us”) operates the Sikhi Connect mobile application (available on iOS and Android) and the official website (sikhiconnect.app). Our mission is to provide an open-source, respectful, and distraction-free platform for reading Gurbani, managing daily Nitnem, streaming Live Kirtan from Sri Harmandir Sahib, and exploring Sikh history.
We are committed to full compliance with Google Play Store User Data Policies, Apple App Store Guidelines, and global data privacy standards (including GDPR and CCPA).
2. Information We Collect
We collect only the minimal necessary data required to deliver our core application functionality:
When you voluntarily submit your email address via our waitlist or account creation forms, we collect your email to provide early access invites, important feature announcements, and account security updates.
To deliver scheduled Nitnem reminders (morning, evening, bedtime) and Daily Hukamnama notifications, we store an encrypted Firebase Cloud Messaging (FCM) or Apple Push Notification Service (APNs) device token. We also log operating system version, device model, and app release version to maintain compatibility.
Search queries entered into our Gurbani AI feature are processed anonymously to retrieve relevant scriptural verses and historical context. Search prompts are not linked to your personal identity.
Your reading history, bookmarked Shabads, custom font sizes, night mode preferences, and offline downloaded Banis are stored locally on your device using secure local storage / key-value stores.
3. How We Use Your Information
We use the data collected strictly for legitimate application operating purposes:
- Core App Functionality: Enabling Gurbani scriptural reading, offline Bani access, and live audio playback from Sri Harmandir Sahib.
- Push Notifications: Triggering customized reminders for daily prayer schedules as requested by the user.
- Gurbani AI Responses: Generating accurate scriptural translations and historical explanations.
- Diagnostics & Performance: Monitoring application stability, fixing crashes, and improving server response times.
- No Advertising: Sikhi Connect is 100% ad-free. We do not use your data for advertising, cross-app tracking, or marketing profiling.
4. Data Sharing & Third Parties
We strictly DO NOT sell, rent, or trade your personal data to third parties.
To provide dependable cloud features, we rely on trusted enterprise infrastructure providers who adhere to rigorous data privacy standards:
5. Security & Encryption
All data transmitted between the Sikhi Connect mobile application, website, and servers is protected using Transport Layer Security (TLS 1.2/1.3 / HTTPS encryption). Data stored on cloud services is encrypted at rest using industry-standard AES-256 algorithms.
6. Data Retention & User Deletion Process
We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes described in this Privacy Policy.
Request Account or Data Deletion
In compliance with Google Play Store and iOS developer policies, users have full rights to request complete deletion of their account records, email address, bookmarks, and push notification tokens.
All valid deletion requests are fulfilled within 30 days of receipt.
7. Children's Privacy
Sikhi Connect is designed for spiritual, educational, and family use across all age groups. We do not knowingly collect personal identifiable information from children under the age of 13. If a parent or guardian becomes aware that their child has provided personal information without consent, please contact us immediately for prompt deletion.
8. Your Rights & Choices
Depending on your location, you hold specific rights regarding your personal data:
- Push Notifications: You can disable prayer reminders at any time through your mobile device system settings.
- Access & Export: You may request a summary copy of your stored account data.
- Local Data Reset: You can clear app cache and local offline data at any time via app settings or OS application preferences.
9. Changes to This Privacy Policy
We may update our Privacy Policy periodically to reflect app updates, new functionality, or legal requirements. Material updates will be posted on this page with an updated "Effective Date" at the top.
10. Contact Information
If you have questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or how your data is handled, please contact our team: