Govt to Unveil new security policy soon: Minister Sridhar Babu

Hyderabad: Minister for IT and Industries Duddilla Sridhar Babu has announced that the State will soon unveil a new security policy in line with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act.

Addressing the 'SHIELD 2025' conference here, organised by the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau (TGCSB), Cyberabad Police, and the Society for Cyberabad Security Council (SCSC), the Minister underscored the need for a robust system to preempt cybercrimes.

Highlighting the state's unwavering commitment to cybersecurity, Sridhar Babu revealed plans to establish a Giga Watt Data Center harnessing cutting-edge AI technologies.

In an era where nations compete for supremacy in cyberspace, he stressed that safeguarding data is paramount, as cybercriminals increasingly target data over financial assets, posing threats to personal privacy and the nation's economic stability.

The Minister lauded the Telangana Police for their relentless efforts in tackling cybercrime, citing the recovery of Rs. 185 crore from the Rs350 crore looted by cyber offenders.

Expressing concern over India's dependence on imported cybersecurity software worth $7 billion annually, despite being the world's second-largest producer of software engineers, he urged industry experts to reflect and innovate.

Assuring full support from the state government for forward-thinking innovators, Sridhar Babu emphasised the need for contemporary solutions over conventional approaches.

Reflecting on data privacy, he remarked that tech giants like Google often know more about individuals than they do themselves. While acknowledging the immense opportunities technology offers, he cautioned against the ever-evolving tactics of cybercriminals, especially with the advent of Artificial Intelligence.

Warning of the dark web’s growing menace, where personal data is readily available for sale, Sridhar Babu highlighted the staggering $10 trillion annual global losses to cybercrime, with India alone accounting for Rs15,000 crore.

Emphasising that many victims hesitate to report such crimes, making recovery challenging, he urged citizens to remain vigilant and proactive. Reaffirming that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, he noted Telangana’s efforts to train the youth as cybersecurity specialists through the Skill University.

The event saw the participation of Home Secretary Ravi Gupta, DGP Dr. Jitender, TGCSB Director Shikha Goel, Cyberabad CP Avinash Mohanty, and other distinguished guests.