|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
India has reached a significant milestone in its cybersecurity journey by attaining Tier 1 status in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024, published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). With an impressive score of 98.49 out of 100, India now ranks among ‘role-modelling’ countries, showcasing its robust commitment to cybersecurity practices on a global scale.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) played a pivotal role in this achievement, acting as the nodal agency for India’s participation in the GCI. The Minister of Communications, Jyotiraditya M Scindia, hailed this accomplishment as a “Proud Moment for Bharat”.
“This stellar achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to cybersecurity and highlights the remarkable growth of India’s telecom sector,” he said.
The GCI 2024 assesses national cybersecurity efforts based on five key pillars: legal, technical, organisational, capacity development, and cooperation. The evaluation process involves a comprehensive questionnaire that includes 83 questions, covering 20 indicators, 64 sub-indicators, and 28 micro-indicators, ensuring a thorough examination of each nation’s cybersecurity landscape.
India’s success in the GCI is attributed to various initiatives and measures implemented by the Government of India aimed at enhancing cyber resilience. The country has established robust frameworks for cybercrime laws and cybersecurity standards, ensuring that its legal institutions are well-prepared to address emerging cybersecurity challenges.
Furthermore, the establishment of Sectoral Computer Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs) provides sector-specific technical support and incident reporting, strengthening India’s overall cybersecurity capabilities.
Education and public awareness are central to India’s cybersecurity strategy. The government has launched targeted campaigns and educational initiatives to promote secure online practices across various sectors, including private industry, public institutions, civil society, and academia.
Notably, integrating cybersecurity into primary and secondary education curricula underscores India’s commitment to cultivating a knowledgeable and well-prepared digital citizenry.
In addition to educational efforts, the Indian government has incentivised skill development within its cybersecurity industry through grants and funding for research and innovation. This focus on skill-building is vital for developing a workforce capable of addressing the growing cybersecurity demands of the digital age.
International collaboration also plays a crucial role in India’s cybersecurity framework. Through bilateral and multilateral agreements, the country has enhanced its capacity-building initiatives and information-sharing efforts, solidifying its position as a global leader in cybersecurity. These collaborations facilitate knowledge exchange and the adoption of best practices, further strengthening India’s cybersecurity posture.
OpenGov Asia reported that India’s Vice President stressed the urgent need for strong cybersecurity measures to support the country’s rapid digital transformation. With 500 million banking accounts and high digital transaction volumes, he cautioned about cyber threats and stressed the need for public awareness, especially in rural areas.
The Vice President advocated for a multi-stakeholder approach to cybersecurity, emphasising collaboration among governments, institutions, and individuals. He highlighted initiatives like the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act as crucial for strengthening defences.
He also called for enhancing education in disruptive technologies and fostering cybersecurity leadership to secure India’s digital future and establish its role as a global technology leader.
India’s leap to Tier 1 status in the GCI 2024 serves as a clear indicator of the nation’s elevated commitments to cybersecurity. This achievement reflects not only the Government of India’s dedication to securing its digital domain but also sets a benchmark for other nations striving to enhance their cybersecurity frameworks.
The DoT continues to spearhead India’s efforts in securing its digital infrastructure on the global stage, reinforcing the nation’s role as a proactive player in the international cybersecurity arena. As India moves forward, its commitment to fostering a secure digital environment will remain pivotal in addressing emerging threats and ensuring the safety of its digital citizens.
