India's digital ecosystem requires robust cybersecurity infrastructure backed by substantial budget allocations. As we prepare for the upcoming Union Budget, sector-wise investments are crucial for protecting our critical infrastructure from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.
For defence installations, higher allocation is needed to strengthen cybersecurity measures. This would enable the implementation of AI-driven threat detection systems, quantum-resistant encryption protocols, and advanced perimeter security. The defence sector faces unique challenges, including state-sponsored attacks and attempts to compromise classified information. The allocation would support establishing dedicated security operations centres and continuous monitoring systems.
The oil and natural gas sector must protect its refineries and distribution networks. Recent global incidents have shown how cyberattacks can disrupt supply chains and cause significant economic damage. This investment would focus on securing SCADA systems, implementing real-time threat detection, and protecting critical infrastructure from ransomware attacks that could paralyse operations.
Our power grids, increasingly vulnerable to sophisticated cyber threats, need to be further fortified by implementing advanced security systems. Higher allocation for this sector would enable the establishment of real-time monitoring centres, upgrade existing infrastructure with modern security protocols, and create redundant systems to ensure continuous operations even during cyberattacks. The investment would also support the development of AI-powered grid management systems with built-in secu ..
The communications sector is one of India’s shining growth stories that has brought about deep digital transformation at the grassroots level. We recommend substantial allocation of funds to secure 5G infrastructure and protect against potential data breaches. As India expands its 5G network and digital connectivity reaches the last mile, ensuring robust security measures becomes paramount. The allocation would support implementing end-to-end encryption, securing network equipment, and establish ..
Manufacturing facilities transitioning to smart technologies need continuous cybersecurity upgrades. This investment would focus on protecting intellectual property, securing connected systems, and implementing zero-trust architectures.
As manufacturing becomes increasingly automated and interconnected through initiatives like Make in India, safeguarding these systems from cyber threats is vital to ensure operational continuity and protect sensitive industrial data.
The allocation should also be made to bring in digital transformation and cybersecurity awareness and protection of the small and medium sector industries, that have traditionally lagged adopting technology in their processes.
Nuclear power is critical to the nation’s growth, while we invest more in renewable sources of energy. This sector requires the highest security standards due to the potential consequences of any breach. The investment would support implementing air-gapped networks, ..
These allocations can be distributed across three key areas: infrastructure modernisation, threat detection and response systems, and workforce training. The infrastructure modernisation component would focus on upgrading legacy systems, implementing new security protocols, and establishing secure communication networks. Threat detection and response systems would leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning to identify and counter threats in real-time. The workforce training component ..
Additionally, a dedicated emergency response fund should be established for rapid deployment during cyber incidents. This fund would enable quick response to emerging threats and support recovery efforts in case of successful attacks.
The suggested investments and allocations represent a significant commitment to protecting our critical infrastructure. While the overall figure might be substantial, it must be viewed in the context of potential losses from cyberattacks, which can run into ..
The implementation of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act provides a regulatory framework, but without adequate investment in cybersecurity infrastructure, compliance becomes challenging. These allocations would help create a robust security ecosystem that protects our national interests while ensuring sustainable digital growth. The investment would also support India's position as a global digital leader, demonstrating our commitment to building secure and resilient infrastructure.
Source Name : Economic Times