Karnataka earmarks over ₹100 cr. to implement Cyber Security Policy

Karnataka has introduced the Cyber Security Policy, 2024, aiming to address increasing cyber threats, enhance awareness, build skills, promote public-private collaboration, and safeguard digital infrastructure for both the State and its citizens.

Priyank Kharge, Minister for Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, IT, and Biotechnology, announced that the State government has allocated ₹103.87 crore over the next five years to implement the Cyber Security Policy, funded through the budget of the Department of IT, BT, and Science and Technology.

Focus Areas

The policy emphasizes several key areas, including awareness and education, skill development, support for industry and startups, and collaborative capacity building. It will also establish an assurance framework, strengthen regulatory measures, respond swiftly to security threats, protect critical information, mitigate supply-chain risks, and develop human resources, as highlighted by the Minister at a media conference.

“This policy aims to create a resilient and secure cyberspace for both our citizens and businesses,” he stated.

The policy was reviewed by the Indian Institute of Science and developed in collaboration with the Department of Electronics, IT, BT, and Science and Technology, the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (e-Governance), and the Home Department, in consultation with industry experts.

Cisco Training Initiative

To enhance cybersecurity skills and digital safety statewide, the government has partnered with Cisco to train 40,000 individuals, including 20,000 women. This initiative demonstrates the State’s dedication to developing a strong talent pool to counter rising cyber threats.

Training programs will include CyberOps Associate for graduates and final-year students, Cybersecurity Essentials for graduates and students to learn digital protection, and Introduction to Cybersecurity for industry-level training. This initiative aims to improve the employability of Karnataka’s youth in cybersecurity roles.

Roundtable Discussion

The policy launch featured a roundtable discussion on ‘Strengthening National Cyber Resilience: Enhancing Government and Private Sector Partnerships in Cybersecurity,’ with thought leaders from various sectors. 

One participant suggested the need for “sector-specific intelligence” to tackle cybercrimes, noting vulnerabilities such as loosely controlled diagnostic lab reports and easily hackable medical equipment. Another expert recommended integrating ethical technology use into school curricula.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/karnataka-earmarks-over-100-cr-to-implement-cyber-security-policy/article68473298.ece