NEW DELHI, Sep 10: Union Home Minister Amit Shah today announced to train 5,000 ‘cyber commandos’ in the next five years to combat cybercrime.
He also launched several initiatives, such as a Cyber Fraud Mitigation Centre and a comprehensive web-based data repository and portal for sharing cybercrime information.
Speaking at the first Foundation Day celebration of the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) in Delhi, Amit Shah highlighted that cybersecurity is crucial for national security and progress.
He urged all stakeholders to collaborate in tackling cybercrime, which knows no boundaries.
“Without cybersecurity, the development of the nation is impossible at this point. Technology is a blessing to humanity. Technology is being used to a great extent to boost the economy but at the same time, we are also seeing many threats because of technology. Cybersecurity has become an important part of national security. We won’t be able to secure our nation without cyber security. Platforms like I4C can play a key role in this,” Amit Shah said.
Shah also pointed out the need for a national-level suspect registry that includes all states to prevent future crimes. He announced that I4C would launch a nationwide awareness campaign starting from September 10th, utilizing various channels such as FM radio and other platforms.
“The more popular the ‘1930’ number becomes, the more effective it will be. On this occasion, I will also appeal to all state governments to join this campaign,” he added.
The home minister stressed the importance of securing cyberspace, noting that 46 percent of global digital transactions occur in India. He commended I4C’s efforts in issuing over 600 advisories and blocking websites, social media pages, mobile apps, and accounts used by cybercriminals.
The I4C wing of the Ministry of Home Affairs was established on October 5, 2018, under the Central Sector Scheme within the Cyber and Information Security Division (CIS Division) of the Home Ministry. Its primary objective is to establish a national-level coordination center for addressing all cybercrime-related issues across the country.
