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The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has embarked on the ‘Cyber Surakshit Bharat’ initiative to combat cybercrime and enhance the capabilities of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) and frontline IT officials across government departments. This initiative aims to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to safeguard digital infrastructures against cyber-attacks.
In line with the ‘Digital India’ vision and amidst escalating cyber threats, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launched the Cyber Surakshit Bharat initiative in collaboration with the National e-Governance Division (NeGD) and industry partners.
Launched in 2018, the CISO training programme is a unique partnership between the Government and industry consortium under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. Since its inception, NeGD has conducted 43 batches of CISO deep-dive training programmes, benefitting over 1,604 CISOs and frontline IT officials till April 2024.
The objectives of the initiative include creating awareness about evolving cyber threats, providing comprehensive insights into key activities, initiatives, challenges, and solutions, elucidating applicable frameworks, guidelines, and policies, sharing best practices, and furnishing essential inputs to make informed decisions on cyber security issues within their respective domains.
Originally designed as a five-day residential regional training across several major cities, the current circumstances necessitate a shift to online delivery spanning six days due to the ongoing pandemic. The programme covers various pertinent areas in detail, featuring expert insights from government officials and industry leaders, ensuring a practitioner-centric approach to addressing cybersecurity concerns.
Under the Capacity Building scheme of the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), the 43rd CISO Deep-Dive training programme was organised from April 8-12, 2024. Participants from various states including Assam, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Kerala, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and the National Capital Territory of Delhi attended the programme at the Indian Institute of Public Administration in New Delhi.
The inaugural session witnessed the presence of senior officials from MeitY, NeGD, and IIPA. The training focused on providing comprehensive insights into cyber-attacks, imparting knowledge about the latest safeguarding technologies, and enabling participants to develop resilient e-infrastructure. It also aimed at enhancing understanding of legal provisions and formulating robust cyber security policies and crisis management plans.
The programme’s objectives include raising awareness, enhancing capacities, and fostering a cyber-resilient ecosystem within government departments. By sensitising participants on cyber safety and security, the initiative aligns with the Digital India programme’s objective of delivering government services efficiently to citizens.
India is deeply committed to ensuring a safe digital environment for its citizens, businesses, and the public sector, recognising the critical importance of cybersecurity in advancing the nation’s digital transformation agenda and safeguarding against evolving cyber threats.
Establishing a Cyber Safe India stands as a paramount objective for the Ministry of Home Affairs. With cyber security emerging as a crucial global concern, the government is steadfastly dedicated to ensuring the nation’s safety in the digital realm.
In alignment with the vision for a cyber-safe India, the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) was launched, with an allocated budget of Rs. 340 crore. The I4C serves as a pivotal institution in combating cybercrime comprehensively and in a coordinated manner, aiming to enhance citizen safety by fostering collaboration among various Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) and stakeholders.
Efforts have had an impact in enhancing cyber security, with achievements including the National Cybercrime Reporting Portal (NCRP), over 31 lakh cybercrime complaints reported, and direct FIR registration in 99.9% of police stations through the CCTNS. Notable successes include savings exceeding Rs 1,100 crore (US$ 150 million) from online frauds and the blocking of fake SIM cards and websites, along with over 400 arrests made in collaboration with JCCT Jamtara, Jharkhand.
