India Steps Up Cybersecurity Measures Amid Rising Threats

Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced measures to bolster India's cybersecurity, addressing rising cyberattacks. Key actions include legal reforms, technical upgrades, and public awareness initiatives. India improved its global cybersecurity ranking, with new laws and coordination centers enhancing defense mechanisms against cyber threats.

India is ramping up its cybersecurity defenses in response to a concerning rise in cyberattacks, according to Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Speaking in Rajya Sabha, Vaishnaw detailed the government's multipronged strategy, which includes legal measures, technical defenses, and public awareness campaigns, to tackle the "big challenge" of cybercrime.

Underlining recent successes, Vaishnaw noted India's ascent in the global cybersecurity index and highlighted legal reforms such as the Digital Personal Data Protection Act. Technical support has been strengthened through the creation of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre and the implementation of coordinated national systems like the National Cyber Coordination Centre.

The minister also cited the effectiveness of these initiatives during significant events like the G20 summit. With the rise in cybersecurity incidents to over two million in 2024, the government's continued efforts are essential in combating increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

(With inputs from agencies.)