Speaking at the event, Nair, the National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC), stressed the importance of cyber hygiene due to India’s high data consumption
Cyberspace’s pivotal role in national security was emphasised by Lt. Gen M U Nair during his valedictory lecture at the conclusion of the ‘Pentathon 2024’ competition held at Amity University’s Noida campus. The event, organized by the Ministry of Education, saw Nair highlighting the profound impact of cyberspace on decision-making processes and the potential for service disruptions.
Speaking at the event, Nair, the National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC), stressed the importance of cyber hygiene due to India’s high data consumption. He urged participants to address challenges in the cyber landscape and enhance their skills in identifying cyber threats through ethical hacking practices. Additionally, he encouraged finding solutions to challenges posed by artificial intelligence.
“Cyber space today is an integral part of national security which can not only impact decision making but also cause disruption of services,” Nair said.
“Data consumption is highest in India, and therefore, users need to be aware of challenges faced due to poor cyber hygiene,” said the National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC), who functions under the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) and coordinates with different agencies at the national level for cyber security matters.
Emphasising collaboration and innovation, Nair emphasised that cyber security is a collective effort. T G Sitharam, the chairperson of the All India Council for Technical Education, echoed Nair’s sentiments, citing India’s extensive digital infrastructure exemplified by initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, Aadhaar, and Covid vaccination certificates.
Sitharam noted the fast-evolving nature of cyberspace and stressed the critical need for skilled individuals to combat vulnerabilities like hacking. With approximately 1.5 million engineers graduating annually in India, Sitharam highlighted the country’s potential to contribute significantly to addressing cyber security challenges.

