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| Securing networks | | Finally, a plan for cyber security | |
A comprehensive cyber secu
rity policy has long been
needed in India and finally the government has released it. Minister of Communications and Information Technology Kapil Sibal was right to call the National Cyber Security Policy 2013 a "framework document" which gives a broad outline. It is clear that the aim of the government is to protect information and prevent cyber attacks by building capabilities within the nation, something that is so acutely needed that the document talks of creating a workforce of five lakh professionals. Cyber protection is a major security issue since most of the infrastructure - be it defence systems, airport communications, power distribution systems, in fact, practically all walks of life - involves the use of computers. India has lagged behind in protecting itself, and in providing the agencies which can investigate cyber crimes. Even the armed forces need to be equipped for a cyber war, should such a necessity arise. India has faced cyber attacks from operators based in China and Pakistan, among other nations, and from time to time certain important computer networks have been compromised. Indian business houses and individuals have also been victims of cyber crimes and they, too, need protection. Cyber connectivity has made the world truly flat and Mr Sibal is right when he says that the boundaries of nation states are easily transcended for cyber crimes. As such, international cooperation is a necessity. For this, there must be a mechanism through which information can be shared and cyber threats neutralised. India has been working with various nations on cyber security, including the US, but even as the government seeks help and extends cooperation, it would, no doubt, have kept the recent disclosures about cyber snooping in mind.
There is no substitute for indigenous capabilities. India needs cyber security that is of global standards. Surely the nation known as an IT powerhouse internationally can turn its talent inwards and build a strong defence system for itself.
Now that the government has taken the laudable initial step of bringing out the plan, much depends on how soon it becomes operational and how effective it will be. |
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