The Bharat National Cyber Exercise (NCX) 2024, a milestone event in India's cybersecurity initiatives, concluded on 29th November on a high note, setting unparalleled benchmarks in cyber resilience, innovation, and collaboration. This initiative brought together over 600 participants, including cybersecurity professionals, policymakers, defense personnel, academia, and industry leaders, to collectively strengthen the nation’s cyber preparedness.
The occasion featured several key milestones, including the launch of the National Cybersecurity Reference Framework by the Director General of the National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC). Another highlight was the unveiling of the Bharat National Cyber Range 1.0, an indigenously developed platform by Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) aimed at advancing India's cyber defense abilities.
The exercise successfully trained over 600 participants, providing them with advanced knowledge and practical tools to fight emerging cyber threats. The occasion created a cooperative ecosystem, uniting stakeholders across government, defense, academia, and industry.
The Bharat CISOs Conclave facilitated high-level talks on strategic cybersecurity policies, while the BHARAT Cybersecurity Startup Exhibition presented state-of-the-art innovations by Indian startups, reflecting the country's growing technological prowess.
Lt. Gen. Johnson P. Mathew, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, lauded the event's cooperative spirit during the valedictory ceremony. He highlighted the vital role of foresight and innovation in securing India's digital frontiers.
Lt. Gen. M.U. Nair, the National Cyber Security Coordinator, provided a complete overview of the outcomes, highlighting the strategic value of the initiatives and lessons learned. Major General Manjeet Singh, Joint Secretary (Cyber) at the National Security Council Secretariat, detailed actionable insights for strengthening cyber resilience and called for continued capacity building.
Professor Kalpesh Wandra, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Rashtriya Raksha University, highlighted academia's key role in advancing national cybersecurity. He stressed RRU's commitment to innovation, exemplified by the development of the Bharat National Cyber Range 1.0.
Colonel Nidhish Bhatnagar of RRU voiced appreciation to the National Security Council Secretariat for its vision and support. He also praised RRU’s faculty, staff, and students for their commitment to the event's seamless execution.
Bharat NCX 2024 has cemented its place as a transformative event in India’s cybersecurity terrain. By launching crucial initiatives, enabling cooperation, and presenting innovations, it has laid a robust foundation for a secure and self-reliant digital India.
The success of this initiative echoes India's growing priority on boosting its cyber defenses and building a robust cybersecurity ecosystem, paving the way for future advancements in the field. (PR)