NEW DELHI: In response to the escalating threat of cybercrime, the Indian government is taking decisive action by establishing a dedicated Cyber Commando force. This specialized unit, comprising nearly 350 personnel drawn from various state police forces, will undergo rigorous training at prestigious institutions including IITs, IIITs, and the National Police Academy.
The Cyber Commandos, scheduled to be commissioned next month, will be responsible for safeguarding critical information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure, responding to cyberattacks, and conducting digital forensics investigations. These highly trained experts will serve as a national resource, equipped to combat cyber threats and ensure the security of digital assets.
The initiative comes as India grapples with a surge in cybercrime. According to data from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Indians have lost a staggering Rs 7,488.6 crore to cyber fraudsters in 2023 alone. Maharashtra and Telangana have been particularly hard hit, with losses exceeding Rs 990.7 crore and Rs 759.1 crore, respectively.
To prepare the Cyber Commandos for their critical mission, the MHA has partnered with leading educational and research institutions. The first batch of recruits will receive training at esteemed organizations such as the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, IIT Kanpur, IIT Madras, IIIT Naya Raipur, and others.
The MHA plans to officially launch the Cyber Commando program on September 10th, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah expected to interact with the selected candidates. This initiative is part of the government's 100-day action plan to address pressing national security concerns.
In addition to the Cyber Commando force, the MHA is also set to inaugurate other key initiatives, including Samanvaya (Joint Management Information System) and the Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC). These measures reflect the government's commitment to strengthening India's cyber defenses and protecting citizens from the growing menace of cybercrime.
As India embraces digital transformation, the establishment of the Cyber Commando force marks a significant step towards ensuring a secure and resilient cyberspace. By investing in specialized training and cutting-edge technology, the government is sending a clear message that it is prepared to confront the challenges of the digital age head-on.
