New Delhi: India is fast emerging as a global cybersecurity powerhouse, with over 400 startups and a skilled workforce of more than 6.5 lakh professionals driving a $20 billion industry, according to Dr. Sanjay Bahl, Director General of CERT-In and Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) at MeitY.
Dr. Bahl highlighted that Indian innovators are developing cutting-edge solutions in threat detection, cyber forensics, and AI-powered monitoring—strengthening the nation’s efforts toward a secure and resilient digital ecosystem.
Speaking during an interactive session with visiting journalists from European Union (EU) countries, Dr. Bahl described artificial intelligence (AI) as a “double-edged sword” that empowers both defenders and attackers.
He explained how CERT-In employs AI-driven analytics and automation to detect, prevent, and respond to cyber incidents in real time, while simultaneously crafting countermeasures against malicious AI-enabled attacks.
The session covered CERT-In’s key roles in crisis management, vulnerability assessment, information sharing, and coordinated responses to cyber threats. Dr. Bahl emphasized that the agency issues timely alerts and tailored advisories to organizations and citizens—ensuring proactive protection without unnecessary alarm.
According to the IT Ministry, the visiting journalists were briefed on CERT-In’s regular cybersecurity drills, capacity-building programs, and global collaborations, including work with France’s National Cybersecurity Agency (ANSSI).
Dr. Bahl also revealed that India recorded 147 ransomware incidents in 2024, noting that swift, coordinated action by CERT-In helped significantly reduce their impact through real-time intelligence sharing and forensic analysis.
The discussion further highlighted CERT-In’s empanelment of auditors, specialized training initiatives, and policy support for startups creating indigenous cybersecurity tools.
Through continuous research, public–private partnerships, and active participation in international forums, CERT-In is building a strong, trusted cyber defense framework—aligned with the vision of Digital India, the IT Ministry added.
