Amit Shah’s 5000 Cyber Commandos Initiative for Next 5 Years: Cyber Commandos, as part of newfound cybersecurity powers, are driving substantial efforts in enhancing the Indian government’s fortified security architecture. Home Minister Amit Shah said 5,000 police personnel must be made world-class experts in dealing with cyber threats within the next five years. The program is part of a wider approach to boost cybersecurity amid growing cybercrime and digital threats in the country.
What is “Cyber Commando” Initiative?
As the name suggests, Cyber Commandos aim to train a core group of experts who can counter cyber-attacks across India quickly. In his address, Amit Shah said cybersecurity is part of national security and assured that the “country can’t progress without providing for it.” This reflects a global realization that defending digital boundaries should now form an integral part of securing national development.
In addition to setting up the Cyber Commandos, the government initiated a state-sponsored program named the Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre (CFMC). The center will allow banks and financial intermediaries to work closely with law enforcement agencies to combat online criminal activity. CFMC aims to develop a well-coordinated framework for immediate action on cyber frauds, strengthening the security posture of the entire financial ecosystem.
National Suspect Registry
Another significant development is the establishment of a National Suspect Registry. This database will contain details of individuals involved in cyber and online financial fraud, allowing for real-time tracking and coordination between states, union territories (UTs), and central investigation agencies. Since cybercriminals don’t operate within geographical boundaries, this registry will be crucial in unifying efforts against cybercrime.
The Samanvaya platform, a web-based module, has also been launched to assist in joint cybercrime investigations. It will function as a central repository for data sharing, crime mapping, and analytics, promoting collaboration among law enforcement agencies across India. The Samanvayaplatform seeks to improve operational effectiveness through better access and sharing of data.
Training and the Need of the Hour
The training of the Cyber Commandos will focus on various aspects such as incident response, digital forensics, and securing critical information technology infrastructure. This specialized training is essential for equipping officers to handle the rapidly changing cyber threat landscape.
The creation of Cyber Commandos is a preemptive measure to tackle the growing cybercrimes in India. Reports indicate that cyber fraud has cost billions, underscoring the urgency for such initiatives. By deploying a dedicated force, the Indian government will be better prepared to respond swiftly to cyber incidents affecting its citizens.
Conclusion
The Cyber Commandos initiative represents a significant progression in India’s cybersecurity landscape. By investing in specialized training, creating a collaborative framework, and enhancing data-sharing capabilities, the government is positioning itself to combat the rising tide of cyber threats. Amit Shah aptly stated that maintaining and securing digital infrastructure is as crucial to a nation’s development as its defense preparedness.
