Out-Of-The-Box Ideas Needed To Contain Cyber-Attacks: UIDAI Official

Lockbit was the most active ransomware group in India, being responsible for over 20 incidents in the country, followed by more than 15 targets by Killsec

India must develop innovative strategies and nurture young talent to protect its digital infrastructure as it has emerged as the second most targeted country for cyber-attacks next only to the US, according to SMD Jeelani, Director of operations of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Inaugurating the SISA's Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence Lab at Dayananda Sagar University (DSU) here, Jeelani said, "The lab is a critical step in shaping a new generation of cyber leaders who can play a key role and offer out-of-the-box thinking and expertise to protect our digital ecosystem."

The initiative is aimed at training students in industry-relevant cybersecurity skills, preparing them to address emerging threats.

Dharshan Shanthamurthy, CEO of SISA, sees the lab as a collaboration hub, fostering student innovation and contributing to the development of the global cybersecurity landscape.

"We believe the impact of this initiative will extend far beyond the classroom, driving innovation and strengthening the global cybersecurity landscape," he said. The initiative aligns with the Indian government's goals for national development, particularly through its inclusion in the central internship program that is a brainchild of the PM Modi. The centre will serve as a platform to support the central government's internship programme announced during the Union Budget 2025 and will play a crucial role in achieving the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047, Shanthamurthy said.