Cyber warfare is considered by some defense analysts to be a larger threat than even Al Qaeda or terrorism. What do you understand by Cyberwarfare? Outline the cyber threats that India is vulnerable to and highlight the state of the country’s preparedness to deal with them.
Cyber warfare is considered by some defense analysts to be a larger threat than even Al Qaeda or terrorism. What do you understand by Cyberwarfare? Outline the cyber threats that India is vulnerable to and highlight the state of the country’s preparedness to deal with them.
Subject: Internal Security
India faces mounting cyber threats as digital infrastructure expands, with 204,844 cybersecurity incidents reported against government organizations in 2023, necessitating a comprehensive understanding and response to cyber warfare.
Understanding Cyber Warfare
- Cyber warfare refers to the use of computer technology and internet networks to disrupt, damage, or destroy enemy information systems and critical infrastructure.
- It includes activities like cyber espionage, denial-of-service attacks, and malware deployment targeting military and civilian assets.
- Modern warfare has evolved from conventional battlefields to fifth-generation warfare, where cyber attacks can paralyze nations without firing a single bullet.
Major Cyber Threats to India
- Critical Infrastructure Attacks: Evidenced by the AIIMS Delhi ransomware attack in 2023 and attacks on power utilities in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
- Data Breaches: Targeting government databases, defense establishments, and financial institutions.
- State-Sponsored Attacks: Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) from hostile nations targeting strategic assets.
- Economic Disruption: Attacks on digital payment systems, stock markets, and e-governance platforms like Karnataka's Kaveri 2.0 portal.
India's Preparedness and Response
Legislative Framework
- Implementation of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023.
- National Cyber Security Policy (NCSP) for creating secure cyberspace.
- CERT-In guidelines for government entities issued in June 2023.
Infrastructure Development
- Allocation of ₹1,900 crore in Union Budget 2025 for cybersecurity initiatives.
- ₹782 crore for capital projects to strengthen cyber infrastructure.
- ₹255 crore for CERT-In operations and capabilities enhancement.
Institutional Mechanisms
- National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) for protecting critical sectors.
- Defence Cyber Agency for military cyber operations.
- National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems with ₹900 crore allocation.
The exponential rise in cyber incidents, with 1,592,917 cases reported in 2023, underscores the need for continued enhancement of India's cyber capabilities through initiatives like the National Cyber Security Strategy and international cooperation in cybersecurity.
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