The 12th edition of the India Security Summit graced New Delhi on 28th August 2019. Distinguished delegates and participants gathered under the banner “Towards New National Cyber Security Strategy”. This gathering aimed to create a comprehensive dialogue centered around the protection of crucial national infrastructure and tackling emerging cyber threats.
Highlights of the Conference
The conference sought to shed light on the mounting challenges in the cybersecurity sector in a rapidly digitizing world. Delegates discussed in detail the dynamics of cyber threats, their incidences, the potential responses and strategies to counter these threats. The need for rapid development of innovative tools and technologies specifically geared towards bolstering cybersecurity was emphasized.
Efforts in Combating Cyber Threats
In a bid to make cyber space safer, the Indian government has initiated multiple schemes and set up dedicated centres to counter and prevent cyber threats. One of those noteworthy initiatives is the ‘Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)’. Rolled out by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the I4C is designed to combat cybercrime in a coordinated and effective manner.
Cyber Swachhta Kendra: A Bid for a Secure Cyberspace
Apart from the I4C, the ‘Cyber Swachhta Kendra’, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)’s Digital India initiative, is another stride towards creating a secure cyber ecosystem in the country. The mission of this centre includes the detection of botnet infections within the country’s cyberspace and taking apt measures to clean and secure end-user systems, thereby preventing further infections.
The Role of the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In)
The Cyber Swachhta Kendra is operated by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In). CERT-In’s role comes under the provisions of Section 70B of the Information Technology Act, 2000. It aligns perfectly with the objectives of the National Cyber Security Policy, that aims to fortify the country’s cyber ecosystem.
| Initiative | Launch Year | Ministry |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre | 2018 | Ministry of Home Affairs |
| Cyber Swachhta Kendra | Unspecified | Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology |
Spreading Awareness and Capacity Building
The Central Government has taken strides beyond establishing centres and launching initiatives. There is now an active focus on spreading awareness about cybercrime among the public. Alert systems have been put in place for timely dissemination of cyber-related alerts and advisories. Additionally, capacity building, training of law enforcement officers, judges, prosecutors, and improvements in cyber forensics facilities are all part of the plan to expedite investigations and prevent the occurrence of cybercrime.
