The first batch of Cyber Commandos successfully completed training under Cyber Commando Training Programme, an initiative of Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The training was conducted by IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation, focusing on cybersecurity, digital forensics, and cyber defence strategies to combat emerging digital threats effectively.
What are Cyber Commandos?
- Cyber Commandos are highly trained officers equipped with advanced cybersecurity skills to counter cyber threats.
- Unlike traditional cybercrime cells, which focus on reactive investigation and prosecution, Cyber Commandos will adopt a proactive approach to tackling cybercrimes.
- This initiative strengthens India’s digital sovereignty by safeguarding critical data and ensuring national cybersecurity preparedness.
Cyber Commando Training Programme
- The Cyber Commando Training Programme was launched by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to create a specialized cybersecurity force.
- Objective: to enhance India’s cyber defence by equipping law enforcement officers with advanced cybersecurity capabilities.
- The program focuses on: Cyber defence strategies; Digital forensics; Ethical hacking; Penetration testing.
- The six-month residential training program was conducted by seven premier institutions, including: IIT Madras; IIT Kanpur; IIIT Kottayam.
Selection Process:
- 30 senior law enforcement officers from across India were selected through a competitive all-India entrance exam.
- These officers received intensive training to meet the highest cybersecurity standards before deployment.
- The initiative is not just a training program, but a long-term mission to build India’s next generation of cyber warriors.
Significance of Cyber Commando Initiative
- Strengthens India’s Cyber Defence: Empowers law enforcement with cutting-edge digital skills.
- Enhances National Cybersecurity: Ensures better protection against cyberattacks and digital crimes.
- Supports India’s Digital Transformation: Secures critical infrastructure and sensitive data.
- Future Expansion: The initiative will be continuously expanded to train more officers, making it a landmark cybersecurity program.
About Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C)
- Established by: Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.
- Purpose: To provide a comprehensive ecosystem for law enforcement agencies (LEAs) to handle cybercrimes effectively.
About IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation
- A Technology Innovation Hub hosted by IIT Madras.
- Funded by: Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.
- Works on Sensors, Networking, Actuators, and Control Systems under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems.