India’s cybersecurity ecosystem has rapidly grown into a 20-billion-dollar sector, supported by over 400 startups and more than 6.5 lakh professionals. Dr. Sanjay Bahl, Director General of CERT-In and Controller of Certifying Authorities under MeitY, emphasized during an interaction with European Union journalists that Indian startups are driving innovation in areas like cyber forensics, threat detection, and AI-based security.
He described artificial intelligence as a double-edged sword that benefits both defenders and attackers. CERT-In uses AI analytics and automation to detect, monitor, and respond to threats in real time while also designing shields against AI-enabled attacks.
The agency’s key roles include crisis management, vulnerability analysis, incident response, and issuing timely advisories. These alerts help organizations and citizens respond early to potential threats without spreading panic.
India reported 147 ransomware incidents in 2024, and CERT-In’s intelligence sharing and forensic actions mitigated their effects. Dr. Bahl also highlighted India’s international collaborations, such as with France’s ANSSI, and its focus on capacity building, auditor empanelment, and startup support.
Through research partnerships and global engagement, CERT-In aims to enhance cyber resilience and strengthen India’s position as a trusted global leader in cybersecurity aligned with the Digital India vision.
